Discover how the strength of Humility anchors the soul and invites God’s favor. Learn habits to walk in humility and live with quiet strength.
Introduction
In today’s world, humility is often overlooked. We live in a time where self-promotion, brand-building, and standing out are seen as keys to success. Yet, Scripture teaches us that true strength lies in humility. It is not the loud, showy kind of power that gets attention, but a quiet confidence rooted in knowing who you are before God.
Humbleness may describe someone’s behavior, but humility is deeper, it is a posture of the heart. It says, “I trust God more than myself.” And that kind of trust leads to peace, favor, and spiritual strength. As Jesus taught, “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” (Matthew 23:12)
God Lifts the Humble
“For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Luke 18:14 (NIV)
“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble. Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.” 1 Peter 5:5–6 (NIV)
These verses reveal a powerful truth: God resists pride, but He is drawn to humility. Pride isolates us from His grace, but humility opens the door to His help.
Humility Is the Anchor That Keeps Us Grounded
Picture a great ship on rough seas. Without an anchor, it would drift into danger. But the anchor holds it firm, no matter the wind or waves. Humility is like that anchor. It keeps our hearts steady when life shakes us. It protects us from the drift of ego and keeps our focus on Christ.
Without humility, we rise with pride and fall with it. But when we are anchored in truth, we remain steady through both praise and criticism.
The Strongest Are the Most Humble
Moses spoke with God face to face. He parted seas. He confronted Pharaoh. He carried miracle-working authority.
Yet Scripture says this about him:
“Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth.” Numbers 12:3 (NIV)
Power did not puff him up, God’s presence kept him low.
Moses understood something we all must learn: the more God gives you, the lower you bow. The higher He elevates you, the deeper your roots must grow in humility.
This is not weakness. This is wisdom.
And Jesus adds a piercing truth to drive it deeper:
“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? […] First take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” Matthew 7:3–5 (NIV)
Humility sees clearly.
It begins by searching your own heart before judging someone else’s.
It builds influence through integrity, not image.
So here is the challenge:
Ask God to search you. Remove the plank. Embrace the posture of Moses, not because you are small, but because He is great.
Three Habits to Grow in Humility
1. Self-Reflection
Humility begins with honest reflection. When we take time to look inward, we become aware of areas where pride may hide. This is not self-condemnation, but a willingness to let God shape our heart. Ask Him: “Is there pride in my attitude? Am I trying to control things I should be trusting to You?”
2. Service
One of the most practical ways to live humbly is to serve others without expecting anything in return. Jesus washed the disciples’ feet, and He is the son of God. That says something. When we serve quietly and joyfully, we learn that value is not in being seen, but in being faithful.
3. Gratitude
Pride says, “I deserve more.” Gratitude says, “Thank You, Lord, for what I have.”
A thankful heart is a humble heart. Start each day by writing down three things you are grateful for. Watch how it reshapes your perspective.
Humility in Action
Living with humility does not mean thinking poorly of yourself. It means thinking accurately, seeing yourself through God’s eyes. It means stepping back so others can step forward. It means trusting God’s timing, even when you feel ready for more.
When you are passed over, misunderstood, or unrecognized, do not fight for attention. Trust that God sees. When the time is right, He will lift you up.
A Short Parable and a Simple Call
There were two trees planted side by side, one tall, proud, and growing fast; the other, short and slow, with deep roots. When the storm came, the tall tree broke under pressure. But the small one stood strong, because its roots ran deep into the earth.
Humility is like those roots. It is not showy. But when life gets hard, it is what holds you upright. If you want to grow in strength, grow first in humility.
Practice humility today. Serve someone quietly. Reflect without defensiveness. Start a gratitude journal. Let humility be your daily anchor and your lasting strength.