Humility Precedes Honor

“Humility precedes honor.” Proverbs 18:12

Do you compete with others to be accomplished or admired? Do you strive to get into (or head up) the popular crowd, out-perform others at work or school, or boast of some other success? If so, I’d like to suggest that these attitudes conflict with Spirit-filled living.

Scripture teaches us to humble ourselves, be inclusive and look to God for our sense of value. Humility (not accomplishment) comes before honor. This means after we humble ourselves and live for God, at the proper time, we will be honored.

When Christians form exclusive cliques or clubs, look down their noses at seemingly unsuccessful people or put on airs of having it all together, this is incompatible with the humility Christ desires from us. The root of these behaviors is Pride.

Humility includes the withdrawn or needy person, values people even if they are different from us, and is honest about mistakes and shortcomings. 

If you struggle with pride, I suggest you take some time to repent and humble yourself before God. Then, invest in your relationship with Christ by letting God’s word “read” you. This will expose lies and set you free to humbly serve others, trusting God to fulfill any need for honor or acclaim.