A Clear Definition of Humility…And How to Practice It

I have often had difficulty determining the fine line between being humble and being overly submissive. I imagine that I am not alone in this confusion.

Many of us have a misunderstood conception of what humility really is. Being humble is often seen as being soft and allowing people to take advantage of them. Or, sometimes people find being humble rather difficult because they believe they have to completely abandon themselves in favor of everyone else. Some may also feel that they cannot be proud of their accomplishments at the fear of being considered arrogant or prideful.

There are people in my life that I consider to be very humble because of what they give to others at the expense of themselves. However, although we want to demonstrate a selfless attitude and avoid boasting about our accomplishments, demonstrating humility doesn’t have to be difficult. I recently found an excellent definition of humility in John Bevere’s book “Relentless”. He says, “those who are truly humble believe, trust, and obey God’s word over what they think, reason, feel, or desire. Consequently, they depend on God’s ability rather than their own”.

For me, this not only clarifies any fine lines regarding humility, but it also makes it easier to accomplish. It’s a matter of realizing that He has all of the power to make things happen in my life, and I have none. It’s a matter of believing the promises that are all over the Bible. These promises are as real as night and day. The key is to believe them and live them, regardless of what outer circumstances may indicate.

So how can you be truly humble? First of all, simply believe every word of the Word that you read. Submit to God’s power knowing that it can help you accomplish anything in your life, regardless of what circumstances or other people tell you. Then sharpen your intuition and stay in tune with where you believe God will have you go and what you are to do. Do your small part each step of the way and leave the rest to God. It is amazing what His power can accomplish in your life.

Another great thing about living this way is that it automatically affects those around you. You have more to give, and you can bring those around you to a higher level. You automatically fit the common definition of humility.

If you struggle in being humble or simply understanding what humility is all about, I recommend you follow this simple definition. You will receive abundant blessings in your own life and will have plenty to share with those around you. Then instead of being proud, be thankful for all that you have and all that you are. Enjoy the blessings 🙂