Day 5

Five Proverbs about Humility

from the Proverbs reading plan

Read the Word

Proverbs 15:33 | Proverbs 16:18-19 | Proverbs 22:4 | Proverbs 25:6-7 | Proverbs 27:1-2

Reflect

Humility is a tricky character trait to measure. Self-abasement, too low a view of self, is offensive to the Creator whose image we bear. Pride, too high a view of self, is one of the things God hates (see Proverbs 6:16-17). And if we spend excessive time considering how humble we are, it can be counterproductive!

The Proverbs have much to say about humility. Note the connection between fear of the Lord and humility. At its root, humility is a correct view of ourselves in relation to God. We are created in His image, and therefore every one of us has worth and value. When we have an active understanding of who God is, we can see ourselves and others more clearly. And we can navigate our position in life from a free and easy spirit, knowing that God’s opinion is the one that matters most.

Respond

When you think about having a correct view of self, where do you fall on the continuum – too high or too low? Which one of these proverbs spoke to you the most?

Have you ever experienced or observed a situation like the one in Proverbs 25:6-7, where you were either promoted to a higher position or demoted to a lower one? Whichever way it went for you, how did you feel?

How does knowing God more fully help you better understand yourself? Spend some time listing 3-5 characteristics of God that you share (you can start by thinking about the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23).