“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up.” – James 4:10 (NIV)
Humility is one of the most powerful — and misunderstood — virtues in the Christian life. The world often tells us to promote ourselves, chase success, and prove our worth. But God’s Word offers a different path: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up.”
To humble ourselves means to come before God in honesty — recognising who He is and who we are. It’s admitting our need for His guidance, strength, and mercy. Humility isn’t about thinking less of yourself; it’s about thinking of yourself less and depending on God more.
When we humble ourselves, we invite God’s presence into our circumstances. We make room for His wisdom, His favour, and His timing. Pride resists God’s hand; humility welcomes it.
Think of how God honoured humble hearts throughout Scripture:
- Moses was a reluctant leader, yet God used his humility to deliver a nation.
- Mary called herself “the Lord’s servant,” and through her, the Saviour entered the world.
- Jesus, our perfect example, humbled Himself even to the point of death — and God exalted Him above every name.
The road of humility may seem low, but it always leads to a higher place — not one of pride, but of purpose. When we stop striving to be noticed and instead seek to honour God, He does the lifting. He restores what’s broken, redeems what’s lost, and raises us into positions where His glory shines through us.
As we reflect today, what does humility look like in your daily walk with God? Let’s look up and not around when faced with these questions. God is able to keep us, not lowly but humble. Humility doesn’t hold you back — it positions you for God’s elevation. When you bow low before Him, He raises you higher than you could ever go on your own.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that true strength comes from humility. Teach me to walk humbly before You — to depend on Your wisdom more than my own, and to seek Your approval above all else. Help me to lay down pride, comparison, and self-promotion. In Your perfect timing, lift me up for Your purpose and glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Read: Proverbs 22:4; Luke 14:11
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 119:105-112; Titus 1; Jeremiah 52