“Do not imagine that if you meet a really humble man he will be what most people call ‘humble’ nowadays: he will not be a sort of greasy, smarmy person, who is always telling you that, of course, he is a nobody. Probably all you will think about him is that he seemed a cheerful, intelligent chap who took a real interest in what you said to him. If you do dislike him it will be because you feel a little envious of anyone who seems to enjoy life so easily. He will not be thinking about humility: he will not be thinking about himself at all.” – C. S. Lewis, “Mere Christianity
Lewis gives us a striking picture of humility – one that has nothing to do with false modesty or self-deprecation. A truly humble person isn’t someone who constantly talks about how unimportant they are. Instead, they are simply others-focused. They listen, they engage, and they live with a quiet confidence that isn’t self-absorbed.
Think about the people you enjoy being around the most. Chances are, they aren’t the ones always drawing attention to themselves. They aren’t obsessed with how they appear or what others think of them. They are fully present, taking a genuine interest in those around them. That’s real humility – not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less.
We have no better example of genuine humility than Jesus – He’s the ultimate example. He, the Son of God, humbled Himself to serve, to love, and to give His life for us. True humility reflects His heart. Humility isn’t about appearing humble… it’s about living in a way that truly puts others first, like He did.
I don’t know about you, but pride is undoubtedly my greatest struggle. Sometimes I crave recognition and approval, and sometimes I really enjoy being the center of attention. It’s definitely an area of my spiritual life that needs the most attention.
Former Blackout Artist 