The Importance of Being Humble

           In today’s society, it is considered acceptable for a person to “show off” what they have and the accomplishments they have achieved in this life. In public, and more frequently on social media, many people feel the need to “brag” about the material possessions they have acquired, or to boast about this or that opportunity that has been given to them. Having earthly possessions and working diligently to achieve specific goals in our lives is good to do; however, we must be careful how we relate that information to others. As Christians, it is always important to keep an attitude of humbleness and to remember that all things come from God.   “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:” (Ephesians 2:8).
          Being humble requires a person to resist exalting him or herself above others. A humble person will not brag about personal achievements or material possessions either in public or on social media. Oftentimes, a humble person’s achievements will only be known if someone else talks about them. Proverbs 27:2 says, “Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.”  Boasting of one’s accomplishments in life can tempt others to sin through envy, and a faithful Christian should always strive to never be a stumbling block before others.
          In all that we accomplish in life, we must always remember that we could do nothing without God’s help. Therefore, if a Christian wants to relay information about something good that he or she has done or has acquired, then that Christian must always remember to give God ALL of the credit. If we choose to focus on pleasing God rather than others, then He will exalt us.  “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:” (I Peter 5:6).
          To be faithful Christians we should always set our sights on the goal of Heaven rather than on acquiring praise from others. We should always strive to be so faithful that when others look at us, they see more of Christ than ourselves. Romans 12:2 says, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Even if we achieve fame and praise from many on this Earth, if we lose the opportunity to reach Heaven, then we have lost everything.  “For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Matthew 16:26). 

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