1. But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6)
2. Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. (1 Peter 5:5)
3. Although he is scornful to arrogant scoffers, yet he shows favor to the humble (Proverbs 3:34)
OUTLINE I. Introduction – Understanding humility!
A. Definition – A personal quality in which an individual shows dependence on God and respect for other persons.
B. It is the absence NOT opposite of pride!
C. Biblical humility is grounded in the character of God. The Father stoops down to help the poor and needy ( Psalm 113:4-9; 138:6-7 ); the incarnate Son exhibits humility from the manger to the cross ( Matt 11:29; Acts 8:32-33; Phil 2:5-8).
D. As a sign of genuine religion (Micah 6:8), humility is necessary to enter God’s kingdom (Matt 5:3; 18:1-4) or to be great in it (Matt 20:26-27; Mark 10:43-44).
E. Humility is the prerequisite for honor (Prov 15:33; 18:12; 22:4; 29:23) and physical blessing (Psalm 37:11; Matt 5:5).
F. It is intimately associated with the fear of the Lord ( Psalms 25:9 Psalms 25:12-14; Prov 15:33 ), it may provide the key to wealth and life ( Prov 22:4 )
II. The Example of Jesus. How did he show humility?
A. His focus was on the Father‟s will, not his own. “For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me” (John 6:38). He prayed as he was facing the cross: “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will” (Matthew 26:39).
B. His focus was away from himself, not on himself. He came to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). Because we are to be like Jesus, the Bible says, “Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others” (1 Corinthians 10:24). “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:3-4).
C. His focus was on serving, not being served. The humility and servant-spirit of Christ is very well demonstrated during the Last Supper when he washed the feet of his disciples. After Jesus washed their feet, he said to them: “Do you understand what I have done for you? You call me „Teacher‟ and „Lord,‟ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another‟s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you” (John 13:12-15).
III. Pride Versus Humility
A. Pride sings the song, “How great you are.” Humility sings, “How Great God Is.”
B. Pride refuses to worship and give God glory and honor, but humility is unashamed to praise, honor and glorify the King of the universe.
C. Pride is concerned with what other people think; humility is concerned with what God thinks.
D. Pride refuses to ask for help; humility asks God for help.
E. Pride is exaltation of self; humility is exaltation of God.
F. Pride makes its own way; humility chooses God’s way.
G. Pride wants the credit for the good things done; humility gives God glory for all good things.

IV. Conclusion – The Christian ought to emulate Christ’s example (Matt 11:28-30; 2 Col 10:1 ) of meekness and humility. There is a great reward for humility. It is the avenue or highway to glory.
AMEN

The Anointing you despise cannot spice your life.

©Pastor Lucy Paynter