7 lessons on how to be humble

“It was pride that changed angels into devils; it is humility that makes men as angels.” -Saint Augustine

The culture of Peter’s day used this particular word ‘humble’ disparagingly and often towards a slave. That attitude of the world threatens the Church even today. Being humble is obviously a trait we all believe in but it doesn’t get a huge mention and we never talk about it as something to aspire to. In fact if you were to say I am humble well that just proves you are not. But why is this so? I think we need more people in all spheres of society, in the Church and outside of it, who will stand up and say one of the hallmarks of their life, the axis of their worldview is that they are lowly in their thinking of themselves and they recognise the value of others above their own value. They are humble.

All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but shows favour to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5 v 5-7)

How to be humble:

1. Look like the lowest. The meaning of ‘to clothe yourself’ was to put on an apron and look like a slave.
2. A willingness to be the last and the least in the room. Hold back your title, your experience, what you know, don’t rush in.
3. Let others get the praise that you deserve.
4. Know that God’s favour doesn’t come because of your achievement but your character.
5. Stop trying to fix or complain about things that are causing you to worry.
6. Be heavy handed with your anxiety and throw yourself on God’s responsibility.
7. Let God care for you and what happens to you.