A Culture Of Humility

Read: Matthew 5:3-12

God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. Matthew 5:3

IN WORD

It’s a common biblical theme: God loves and blesses humility. “These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word” (Isaiah 66:2, NIV). “And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8, NIV). “Though the LORD is great, he cares for the humble” (Psalm 138:6). The quotes could go on and on. Jesus didn’t open up a new theme; He emphasized an old one.

That’s because the Kingdom is eternal. The character of the Kingdom doesn’t change over time because it reflects the unchanging character of the King. If He has ever honored humility, He always will. It’s His nature to do so.

When Jesus blesses the poor in spirit, that’s essentially what He is blessing. It’s a true humility—not self-deprecating behavior but a deep sense of need and an understanding of where the human heart stands in relation to God. If we are poor in spirit, we will realize how desperately we need divine help for everything. We may approach His throne boldly, but we won’t approach Him arrogantly. We will always be in awe of the privilege we’ve been given, aware of the grace and mercy that sustain us, and willing to comply with whatever He asks of us. A spiritually poor heart is not presumptuous, complaining, or entitled. It’s forever grateful.

IN DEED

Jesus offers happiness to such hearts. The King “opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (1 Peter 5:5). If you take Him for granted, feel entitled to His benefits, or condescend to others, you won’t fit the culture of His Kingdom very well. But if you are selfless, deferential, and servant-hearted, you will experience the support of God Himself. That may take time—it’s a test of character to watch others push you down while you’re waiting for God to lift you up—but His promise is certain. Those who know their deepest needs will find Him meeting them.

ADDITIONAL READING: Isaiah 61:1-3

For those who would learn God’s ways, humility is the first thing, humility is the second, humility is the third.

AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO