What does "neither he who plants nor he who waters" teach about humility? The Verse in Focus “So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who makes it grow.” (1 Corinthians 3:7) Key Observations • Paul uses farming imagery—planter and waterer—to picture different servants in the church. • Both roles are necessary, yet both are called “nothing” in comparison to God. • The verse lifts our attention from the workers to the One who produces the harvest. Lessons in Humility • God alone supplies life and increase; every result belongs to Him. • Our titles, gifts, and labor never make us indispensable. • Recognizing God’s sovereignty frees us from rivalry and boasting. • Faithfulness matters more than fame; the hidden waterer pleases God as much as the well-known planter. Supporting Scriptures • John 15:5 — “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” • Philippians 2:3-4 — “In humility value others above yourselves.” • 1 Peter 5:5-6 — “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” • James 4:6 — “But He gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’” • Psalm 115:1 — “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to Your name be the glory.” Practical Applications • Serve without seeking applause—let God measure the harvest. • Celebrate others’ successes, knowing every increase is His. • Pray for God to multiply seed you’ll never see sprout. • Keep perspective when praise or criticism comes—neither defines your worth. • Redirect compliments: “Praise God for what He’s doing.” Closing Thoughts Humility flourishes when we remember that planters and waterers are merely tools in the Father’s hands. The field is His, the growth is His, and the glory is His. |
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