Category Archives: Humility

Two toddlers sitting on a blanket playing with stacking rings and blocks
Bible, Scripture, Wisdom, Conceit, Humility, Harmony, Mind, Romans

GETTING ALONG WITH OTHERS

ROMANS 12:16

“Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation.”

Learning how to get along with others is a skill we try to develop in our children. We teach them to share their toys and to play well with other children. We teach them to not fight and argue. And more importantly, we try to teach them that we need to treat others how we want to be treated ourselves. As my wife and I care for our two youngest grandchildren, we are teaching them to love each other and be kind to each other. Too many adults out there were never taught this by their parents.

Paul stresses these skills in today’s verse. He mentions four things in verse 16 that are essential for us as followers of Christ in order to preserve the unity in the body of Christ. I wonder if he was addressing certain individuals in these statements. He doesn’t mention any names, but he may have been told of certain conflicts among the Roman believers. But these traits he is teaching also apply to how to treat anyone, believers or not.

APPLICATION

Being “of the same mind toward one another” is an interesting statement. The Greek literally reads, “the same thing toward one another minding.” HELPS Word-studies says the Greek word phronéō translated as “minding” has to do with a mindset that is shown in outward behavior. In other words, how we think about others will be shown in how we act towards them. Paul urges us to have the same mindset, to get along. That’s a toddler skill, remember.

This skill is reflected in the following three things Paul talks about. He says for us to “not be haughty in mind.” That means to not be conceited or too high minded toward others. As Christians we are not to put ourselves above others. We need to have the same attitude as Christ (see Philippians 2:5-8). That will definitely preserve the unity of the body.

Then Paul says to “associate with the lowly.” The word “associate” is synapágō and is only used two other times (Galatians 2:13 and 2 Peter 3:17) where it is used in a negative way. The Topical Lexicon says the use of the word in today’s verse means “Believers are urged to let themselves be ‘carried along with’ the humble, rather than drifting toward social pride.”

Finally, Paul tells us to “not be wise in your own estimation.” I am reminded of Proverbs 18:1-2 which reads, “1 One who separates himself seeks his own desire; he quarrels against all sound wisdom. 2 A fool does not delight in understanding, but in revealing his own mind.” Don’t be a fool. Be wise how you treat others. Let’s all relearn those toddler skills we instill in our children and grandchildren. The world and the body of Christ would be much better. Amen?

Give me a humble heart and allow me to see others as more important than myself.

If the Lord should lead you to support our ministry, check out our ministry page at Trans World Radio (www.twr.org/carl-willis). 

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Man kneeling and praying inside a stone medieval church with a cross and lit candles
Arrogance, Bible, Conceit, Humility, Mind, Romans, Scripture

HOW TO THINK OF YOURSELF

ROMANS 12:3

“For through the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith.”

I have never been guilty of thinking too highly of myself. Don’t get me wrong. I have been confident enough, but I don’t think you could call me overconfident. I know there are always others out there more talented and more articulate than I am. I am thankful for the gifts God has given me and want to use them to honor Him, not myself. That is exactly what Paul is talking about in verse 3 of Romans 12.

Paul compares two different ways of thinking of ourselves in this verse. We can think “more highly” of ourselves, or we can have “sound judgment.” The Christian Standard Bible says of that second one, to “think sensibly.” Are you high-minded or sensibly minded? Paul seems to be putting himself in this question as well, as an example of using sounding judgment rather than thinking highly of himself. He knew all he was came through the grace that have been given him.

APPLICATION

The Greek word translated as “think more highly” is huperphroneó, which only occurs only here. It could also be translated as being arrogant or conceited. Some people can get that way when God gives them opportunities to serve Him. They start listening to all the accolades from others. Oh brother, that was a fine sermon. Our church is so blessed to have you as Pastor. Compliments are nice, but when we start believing them about ourselves, we risk the danger of falling into high-mindedness.

In contrast, “sound judgment” means to be sensible and sober minded. It is the Greek word sóphroneó. Now, this is a neat word. HELPS Word-studies says, “[The whole word-family (root, sōphro-) comes from two words: sōos (‘safe’) and phrēn (‘what regulates life,’ the root of the English term, ‘diaphram’). Example: An opera singer controls the length (quality) of their tones by their diaphragm, which even controls our ability to breathe and moderates heartbeat. This regulates (‘brings safety’) to the body, keeping it properly controlled.]” What a great picture for us. We have to moderate our thinking about ourselves.

And the last phrase of today’s verse really drives the point home. Paul writes, “as God has allotted to each a measure of faith.” Everything we have is a gift from God. He measures it out to us. Therefore, we can’t gloat about anything. God gave it. So, the next time you start to get a little high-minded, remember that all you are is because of Him.

I am thankful, Lord, for all You have given me. I will give You praise for it all.

If the Lord should lead you to support our ministry, check out our ministry page at Trans World Radio (www.twr.org/carl-willis). 

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Man in gray blazer with skeptical facial expression talking to a woman in an art gallery
Awe, Bible, Conceit, Fear, Glory, Honor, Humility, Romans, Scripture

CONCEITED

ROMANS 11:20

“Quite right, they were broken off for their unbelief, but you stand by your faith. Do not be conceited, but fear;”

We’ve all known people who were full of themselves. Conceited hardly comes close to describing them. They are sure the world revolves around them. This comes out in their tardiness to any event or in their assumptions about the way they think you should treat them. These individuals usually think they can do no wrong. Any trouble they have is automatically someone else’s fault.

Paul has already warned the Gentile readers of this letter about being arrogant (verse 18) and now he tells them to not be conceited. Actually, the Greek is two Greek words which can be translated as “high minded.” The New Living Translation uses this language, “So don’t think highly of yourself.” Conceit and arrogance should have no place in a believer’s life. Humility is what we are called to by the Lord as we follow His example.

APPLICATION

We are warned not to allow spiritual pride to enter our lives. You may ask how you can become spiritually proud. You may brag about how many times a week you go to church. You may think you are more spiritual because you give more to missions. You could even exhibit this spiritual ego in how you serve, always drawing attention to what you do in the church. Spiritual pride is a precursor to a spiritual fall.

I used to sing a lot in church. I was part of the choir, praise teams and sang solos. I love to sing, but I often cringed when attention was paid to me for a song I had sung. I never wanted to be recognized for that. I wanted all the attention to be directed to Jesus as I sang. The last thing I wanted to be accused of was conceit. That would nullify any honor or praise to my Lord.

Let all your actions for the Lord be grounded in humility. If He exalts you for something, accept that. But don’t expect recognition. Never seek recognition. Let it come to you. Don’t allow the devil to rob you of your joy in serving Jesus because your flesh has reveled in your own glory. That does not honor the Lord. Paul ends the verse by telling them to “fear.” Be in awe of what He has done for you and point all the glory back to Him. Amen?

Lord, I bow before You today as Your humble servant who only wants to bring You honor.

If the Lord should lead you to support our ministry, check out our ministry page at Trans World Radio (www.twr.org/carl-willis). 

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Attitude, Bible, Completeness, Humility, Maturity, Scripture

CHECK YOUR ATTITUDE

PHILIPPIANS 3:15

Therefore, all who are mature, let’s have this attitude; and if in anything you have a different attitude, God will reveal that to you as well;”

Watch your attitude, young man. I probably heard that more than once while I was growing up. I did have a little chip on my shoulder as a teenager. I thought I had something to prove. I could get a little cocky and arrogant. Teachers and coaches would call me on it, thank the Lord. I was never allowed to get way out of line. I had that healthy fear of my dad. I didn’t want to disappoint him.

I could have used this verse back then. Paul tells us to check our attitude. He says, “all who are mature.” If you understand the Scriptures, if you are trying to live for the Lord, have this attitude. The Greek word for “attitude” is phroneó, which means “1. to exercise the mind, i.e. entertain or have a sentiment or opinion 2. (by implication) to be (mentally) disposed (more or less earnestly in a certain direction) 3. (intensively) to interest oneself in (with concern or obedience). (Lexicon). The word is used 26 times in the New Testament, 23 times by Paul. It’s used 10 times in Philippians alone.

APPLICATION

We have already seen Paul use phroneó four times in this letter to Philippi and will see it used four more times. Obviously, Paul was addressing an attitude problem, lol. No, I don’t want to imply the Philippians had a problem with their attitude. But any church faces the danger of this. Perhaps, some in the church had become proud because of all they had done to support Paul. Paul’s motive, though, is to point them to the right attitude which can only be found in Christ.

Romans 12:16 is a perfect illustration of what Paul is talking about. “Be of the same mind  toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation.” What’s Paul talking about? Humility! We saw that in Jesus. We see that in Paul. We should have the same attitude, the same mindset.

So, today I ask you (as I am asking myself) to check your attitude. Our minds need to be focused on how to please our Lord. If others aren’t happy about that, we cannot be concerned about that. Our loyalty, our obedience is to Jesus. Have His mind, as Paul said back in Philippians 2:5-8. Reread that if you need to. Get your attitude in line with His.

Father, help me check my attitude today so that I will be in line with all You teach.

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Bible, Empty, Humility, Pride, Sacrifice, Scripture, Self-righteousness

EMPTY YOURSELF

PHILIPPIANS 2:7

“but emptied Himself by taking the form of a bond-servant and being born in the likeness of men.”

Emptying ourselves of our pride and arrogance can be a challenge. When you think you are something, you are really nothing. Selfish conceit is just as bad as seeing yourself as unworthy. We are supposed to love ourselves, just not enough to place ourselves above others. Paul continues his theme of humility and the example of Christ in today’s verse.

The Greek word used by Paul here which is translated “emptied” is kenoo which “primarily means ‘to empty’ or ‘to make void.’ In the New Testament, it is often used metaphorically to describe the act of making something of no effect or rendering it powerless. It can also imply the act of divesting oneself of status or privilege.” (Strong’s Lexicon) Christ divested Himself of His status and privilege to serve mankind.

APPLICATION

Let me ask you this – what do you need to empty yourself of? Hmmm? Nothing? Come on! Really? We all have things of which we need to empty ourselves. Kenoo is one of those Greek words ending in -oo which means the emphasis is not on the action of the verb but rather the result of the action of the verb. The result of Christ’s emptying Himself was to die for our sins. Wow!

So, what would be the result of us emptying ourselves? Better relationships? Better marriages? Better workplaces? The list could go on and on. Maybe your relationship kryptonite (for all you Superman fans out there) is pride or selfishness. Maybe it’s vanity or greed. Ask yourself if there is anything about you that is raised above Christ. Then die to it.

Paul says Christ emptied Himself and became a bondservant. That is a willing servant, someone who attaches themselves to a master knowingly. Christ served mankind willingly by making the ultimate sacrifice. How about you?

Lord, help me identify and stomp out anything in me that I have put in a position above You.

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Bible, Humility, Jesus, Joy, Ministry, Scripture

J-0-Y (Jesus first, Others second, Yourself third)

PHILIPPIANS 2:3

“Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility consider one another as more important than yourselves;”

Putting others before yourself is not a normal behavior for most people. The world tells us to “get all we can, can all we get, sit on the can and poison the rest.” Right? We are told to put yourself first, to watch out for numero uno. Many times, those who climb the ladder of success do it on the backs of others. How can we do as Paul instructs us today and “consider one another as more important” than ourselves?

The key to putting others first is found in the word “humility.” Without that, it is impossible to put others before us. Without humility, we see the world as ours for the taking, no matter who we hurt. Today’s verse is one of those “but” statements. Paul says don’t be selfish or conceited, BUT with humility. You can’t be selfish or conceited and be humble at the same time. It’s just not possible. So, Paul tells us to make a choice. It’s one way or the other. Which will you choose?

APPLICATION

“Humility” is the Greek word tapeinophrosune. It “refers to a mindset characterized by humility and modesty. It is the quality of having a humble opinion of oneself, a deep sense of one’s moral littleness, and a modest view of one’s importance.” (Strong’s Lexicon). This was counterculture back in the Greco Roman world, just as it is today. We see this word used in 1 Peter 5:5. “You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT HE GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.”

Paul tells us to “consider…more important.” The Greek word for “consider” is the same word used in James 1:2 when James says, “Consider it all joy…” It can have the definition of “lead the way.” Paul wants us to lead the way in putting others before us.

Finally, let me point out that he says, “more important.” The same Greek word is used by Paul later in Philippians when he says in 4:7 that the peace of God, “which surpasses all understanding.” What we think of others and how we treat others should surpass what we think of ourselves. That’s hard to do. No, it’s impossible to do without humility. Dwell on that today.

Father God, let me see others as You see them, then I will have no problem putting them before me.

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Bible, Compassion, Gentleness, Heart, Humility, Kindness, New, Patience, Scripture

A NEW HEART

COLOSSIANS 3:12

“So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience;”

I have known people who received a heart transplant. I met some while I was having treatment for my own disease which can attack your heart. These individuals were given a new chance at life with a new heart. But guess what? They will still die. That new human heart will not last forever. We only have as many heart beats as God has planned for us. I truly believe that.

In today’s verse, Paul tells the Colossians (and us) to “put on” a new heart. What does he mean by that? This verb is an Aorist Imperative Middle. Thank you, Carl, that really blessed me. Hang on! Aorist tense means it happened in the past. Imperative mood means it is a command. And Middle voice means only you can do it. Let’s look at what kind of heart this is.

APPLICATION

Paul says it is “a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience;” Wow, that’s a lot. I might hit one of those a day, but all five? That’s asking a lot. Or is it? See, it is not up to me to be all of these. Christ in me can do this with His eyes shut, right? We just need to let Him give us that heart, accept it and He will do the rest.

We are told to put on Christ (Romans 13:14; Galatians 3:27). We are told to clothe ourselves with the armor of God in Ephesians 6 and Romans 13:12. We are told to put on the new self in Ephesians 4:24. That’s a lot of “putting on.” Don’t you understand? One “putting on” of Christ covers all of this. He is the whole outfit.

One good thing about wearing a uniform to school or work is you don’t have to worry about what you are going to wear. Someone else has decided what you should wear. That’s how it is with Jesus. He has the perfect thing for you to put on, but you have decide to put it on. Will you do that today?

Clothe me today with righteousness and holiness so that I will have this new heart.

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Bible, Flesh, Humility, Pride, Scripture, Spiritual

SELF-MADE RELIGION

COLOSSIANS 2:23

“These are matters which do have the appearance of wisdom in self-made religion and humility and severe treatment of the body, but are of no value against fleshly indulgence.”

I read the other day a poll that identified generations according to their spiritual identity. According to that, here is how the generations identified as spiritual: Baby Boomers 35%, Gen X 36%, Millennials 52% and Gen Z 62%. While those numbers for Gen Z and Millennials seem great, what exactly does “spiritual” mean?

Paul addresses this very issue in today’s verse. There were groups of individuals who appeared spiritual. They had their own self-made religious rules they followed. They fasted and prayed. They even abused their bodies so as to appear humble. All the while their pride was growing. Barnes shares this quote about this verse. “Pride may be pampered while the flesh grows lean.” How true!

APPLICATION

That word used by Paul for “self-made religion” is ethelothréskia. It is only used here in this verse. I always wonder why a word is only used one time in Scripture. This word means “self-willed religion, defined by the desires of the human will – which amounts to nothing! This form of ‘worship,’ which is accomplished ‘by self’ (Souter), is merely a ‘will-worship,’ exalting the worshiper at God’s expense.” (HELPS Word Studies).

What self-made rules have you placed on yourself to make yourself look more spiritual? Not me, Carl. I would never do that. Be careful saying “never.” Without even realizing it we can place burdens on ourselves to make us feel closer to God. Don’t you get it? He lives IN you. You can’t get much closer than that.

The next time someone shares what they are doing to draw closer to God, take a closer look. Does it align with the Word? Would Jesus be pleased in what they are doing? We are told to draw near to Him. We must cleanse our hands and purify our hearts. Sin will separate us from Him. There’s no doubt about that. But don’t be pressured into following some man-made script to accomplish that.

Lord, I am thankful You are close. I am the one who causes distance. I want to draw near to You. 

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Bible, Humility, Scripture, Subjection, Submission

SUBJECT YOURSELVES

EPHESIANS 5:21

“and subject yourselves to one another in the fear of Christ.”

No one likes to submit to someone else. I have this image in my head of childhood wrestling matches and getting pinned by someone. They might have my arm behind my back or have put me in some other uncomfortable position and asked me to say “uncle,” which meant I was submitting to them. No one wants to be in that position. Now, get that image completely out of your head, because that is not what is meant in today’s verse.

Paul uses the word hupotassó which means “to subordinate; reflexively, to obey — be under obedience (obedient), put under, subdue unto, (be, make) subject (to, unto), be (put) in subjection (to, under), submit self unto.” (Strong’s Concordance). It is not a negative word. It is actually quite positive. We place ourselves up under someone willingly trusting they are looking out for us.

APPLICATION

The verse that really goads some people is Colossians 3:18. “Wives, be subject to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.” Because of so much domestic violence, women are reluctant to accept this command from God’s Word. “Subjection” does not mean door mat. God never intended men to treat women disrespectfully. In fact, just the opposite. He told men to love their wives as Christ loved the church. He died for it.

In 1 Peter 5:5, there is another verse that disturbs people, this time the younger generation. “You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT HE GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.” Our younger generation today does not seem to want to submit or subject themselves to anyone, yet it is a command of the Lord.

Unless you accept your submission to God, unless you subject yourself to His will, you will never submit yourself to another person. But through your humility and willingness to serve another, you can learn to be subject. Try it today. Choose to submit. This honors our Father in heaven.

Father, thank You for allowing me to submit to Your leadership. Help me submit to those in authority over me.

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Abiding, Bible, Forbearance, Gentleness, Humility, Patience, Scripture, Walking

HOW TO WALK WORTHY

EPHESIANS 4:2

“with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love,”

I was walking the other day and stepped up on a sidewalk jamming my right hip. It took a few steps to work that “kink” out, but it got better as I walked. Until… The next day and each day since then (it seems), that hip has been bothering me. I guess I am due to go see my chiropractor and get him to check it. One little misstep has caused some lasting pain.

In yesterday’s verse (Ephesians 4:1) Paul tells us “to walk in a manner worthy of the calling.” We talked about the calling yesterday, but what about this walk? What did Paul mean by walking worthy? Well, he went on to explain what he meant in today’s and tomorrow’s verses. Let’s take a look at what walking worthy means and how we can do that.

APPLICATION

Paul gives some descriptions in today’s verse of what it takes to walk in a manner worthy of our calling. First of all, he says we should walk (live our lives) “with all humility.” I don’t know about you, but I don’t like that. I don’t want to be humbled by anyone or anything. But wait a minute. Scripturally, that is a good thing. The word here for humility is tapeinophrosýnē. HELPS Word studies says it is “(lowliness, humility) an inside-out virtue produced by comparing ourselves to the Lord (rather than to others). This brings behavior into alignment with this inner revelation to keep one from being self-exalting (self-determining, self-inflated). For the believer, tapeinophrosýnē means living in complete dependence on the Lord, i.e. with no reliance on self (the flesh).” That’s a pretty exhaustive definition, don’t you think?

Then Paul continues in our verse by saying, “and gentleness.” Wow, not only must we be humble. We must be gentle. The word here is prautés, which is a gentle strength. It does not mean you are weak. Think of a strong, beautiful stallion that has been broken for a rider. That animal still has all the strength it had before, only now it is under control.

Next, we are told to have “patience.” What? That’s asking way too much. Makrothumia means to be long suffering. This really applies towards people, not circumstances. This is the same word used in Galatians 5:22 where Paul gives us the fruits of the Spirit. This is God’s patience towards us.

Lastly, Paul says we should walk worthily by “bearing with one another in love.” The Greek word for “bearing with” literally means “to put up with.” Now, just think of the number of people that may apply to in your life. But don’t get too cocky about that. You are probably on their list too.

Listen, walking worthy of our calling is only possible through the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. You cannot walk humbly, gently, patiently or with forbearance apart from God. He knows that and will give you all these things if you ask. Back to my opening illustration – I made a misstep that caused me pain. I can get help with that. The same applies to your walk with Christ. You may have mis-stepped, but God can correct it. Go to Him.

O Lord, I want to walk in a manner pleasing to You

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