It may be counterintuitive; it’s definitely counter-cultural. “It” is humility, the willingness not to exalt self but to exalt others; the choice to care about other people’s needs and not just our own. Humility is an awareness of our sinfulness as well as our weaknesses and limitations. As such, humility can move us closer to Jesus with a heart ready to receive all that He wants to give. Peace, direction, comfort, love, close fellowship with Him—humble yourself and know such precious blessings from God.
By humility and the fear of the LORD
Are riches and honor and life.
PROVERBS 22:4
For thus says the High and Lofty One
Who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy:
“I dwell in the high and holy place,
With him who has a contrite and humble spirit,
To revive the spirit of the humble,
And to revive the heart of the contrite ones.”
ISAIAH 57:15
“God resists the proud,
But gives grace to the humble.”
Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
JAMES 4:6–8
The LORD lifts up the humble;
He casts the wicked down to the ground.
Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving;
Sing praises on the harp to our God,
Who covers the heavens with clouds,
Who prepares rain for the earth,
Who makes grass to grow on the mountains.
PSALM 147:6–8