“One way or another, you and I have tried to take things into our own hands and, in so doing, we’ve viewed humility as unwanted and unnecessary. Yet amid all our angst and opposition to humility, it is actually humility that will move us forward, into the life we’re longing for.”- Joel Muddamalle (emphasis author’s)
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”- Colossians 3:12 (NIV)
Joel Muddamalle concludes Chapter 1 of The Hidden Peace with a bold statement about humility. That humility is a gift. A gift that helps the best of who we are flourish. Certainly, many people contend that a humble spirit leaves one vulnerable and weak. Instead, Joel intends to show us that humility actually makes us steady and strong.
Consequently, Joel informs us that he spent over a thousand hours studying humility in the Bible. Hence, Joel lists four of the concepts he learned about humility and why we find worth in pursuing it. Humility:
- reorients our view so we can see ourselves as God does.
- helps us see the value of our work but won’t let us define our worth by what we do.
- gives us the courage to face our failures and learn and grow from them.
- continually reminds us that we were created to reflect God’s glory, not to try to absorb glory for ourselves.
However, Joel counsels, we tend to run away from humility. Because we want to maintain (human) control, strength, or power in our life. But the very things we try really hard to gain and keep only make us more afraid of failure. And more aware of our weaknesses.
In conclusion, Joel acknowledges:
“I need humility because, honestly, I’ve tried everything else, and none of it has worked. I’ve still felt anxiety about the reality of my weakness. I still fear being walked on and over. If you’re in the same spot or something like it, welcome. Hi, it’s me. It’s nice to meet you.”
Today’s question: What keeps you from seeing humility as unwanted and unnecessary? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “The presence of the King”