Humility List

     I've been thinking a lot lately about humility. Humility is probably as far away from our human tendencies as we can get. So I started a list of ways humility could show itself in one's life. I don't have a deep enough understanding of humility to make a conclusive list, but these are the things I've been thinking about:

• Humility recognizes no rights outside of the right to follow Jesus.

• Because humility has no rights, humility will not be the cause of friction.

• Humility shares thoughts and ideas, even when they are different than others in the room.

• Humility, in vulnerability, is able to share struggles and be open about hurts.

• Humility can reach out to others without worrying that the overtures will be interpreted as awkward.

• Humility is willing to try new things and explore the edges of comfort zones.

• Humility can be quiet in the face of false accusation.

• Because humility understands that others are important, humility learns patience.

• Humility forgives.

• Humility is able to accept reproof because humility has accepted it is flawed.

• Humility is willing to use talents, even if it knows it is not the best.

• Humility is also willing to let the talents of others shine.

• Humility understands that it must let go of the ideal of perfection.

• Humility seeks to know the hearts of others instead of making up its mind based on appearances.

• Humility is overwhelmed by thankfulness for the love of God because humility recognizes it doesn't deserve anything.

• Humility is able to give true love to others,

• And accept love from others.

• Humility is willing to ask questions when it doesn't understand.

• Humility thinks of others at a social function, not itself.

• Humility avoids pretense. 

• Humility is willing to be quiet

• And willing to speak up.

• Humility will hit "publish" on this post without worrying that people will find it boring or monotonous or that they will judge my failures. 

    The list could go on and on, getting more personal with the little things of our daily lives that come up during interactions with our families and friends. I'm sure you've already thought of many more ways humility impacts a person's life as you've read this. I'd love to hear them. 

    I enjoyed looking for verses on humility. Two that I like are Proverbs 22:4: By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honor, and life and Ephesians 4:2: With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love. I especially appreciate the last part of this verse that talks about how humility gives us more ability to love. 

    I would like to understand humility more. It is the path of humility that leads to Heaven, and it is that path I wish to travel. The beautiful thing? I know it is possible because humility is the same path my Jesus takes, and I know He will travel with me.