THE DEATH OF HUMILITY

THE DEATH OF HUMILITY

What ever happened to that noble, admirable and seldom seen character trait called HUMILITY?  Nowadays SELF-PROMOTION seems to be the acceptable order of the day because it has emerged as a dominant success-strategy, both within the realm of the sacred and the secular.

King Solomon, one of the sages of the ages, wrote clearly and concisely on this subject:

“Let another man praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips.” (Proverbs 27:2)

“By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches and honor and life.” (Proverbs 22:4)

“If you have been foolish in exalting yourself, or if you have devised evil, put your hand on your mouth.” (Proverbs 30:32)

This key truth could not possibly be more plain, profound or powerful.  Amen?  Amen!

Likewise, the Apostle Paul admonishes every believer to adopt an attitude of true humility, which is one of the hallmark characteristics of God’s people.  “Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering.” (Colossians 3:12)

Furthermore, the Apostle Peter confirms this truth, citing the apparently lower pathway of humility as a primary prerequisite to the actual higher avenue of divine affirmation and blessing. “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.” (I Peter 5:6) It’s a genuine paradox; but, appearances can sometimes be rather misleading.  So look deeper. I n truth, the ‘heights’ of abundant life are typically hidden amidst the ‘depths’ of personal meekness.

JESUS CHRIST, Himself, taught “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5)

Notwithstanding these truths, SELF-PROMOTION is far too common among those who profess Christ and purport to be leaders in His Kingdom. Personally, I would rather die in abject anonymity, rather than to reduce myself to the level of ‘living large’ with unabashed braggadocio and bravado.

But I am happy to report that NOT all people are given to unbridled arrogance, boastfulness and shameful self-exaltation.  Indeed, TRUE HUMILITY is alive and well in many leaders within the Body of Christ.

Case in point: My own natural and spiritual brother, Bishop Edwin C. Bass, has risen to numerous positions of prominence within the ranks of our international church body, the Church of God in Christ.  I am extremely elated to make this simple observation: His elevation in the ranks of church leadership has never impacted his head or heart.  In terms of temperament and ego, he is basically the same Christian gentleman today that he was twenty, thirty, or forty years ago.  Bishop Bass, our highest kudos and heartfelt congratulations are extended to you.  Godspeed in your present and future ecclesiastical journey!

My friends, let us make the wise and practical decision to refrain from praising, promoting and exalting ourselves.  Think about it.  Would it not be infinitely better, more admirable and noteworthy for our good works to be authentically appreciated and affirmed by others?

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!