Approaching with Humility
Jump to: SubtopicsTerms
Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Importance
Approaching with humility is a fundamental principle in Christian theology and practice, emphasizing the need for believers to come before God and others with a spirit of meekness, lowliness, and reverence. Humility is not merely an outward demeanor but an inward disposition that acknowledges one's own limitations and the sovereignty of God. It is a recognition of one's dependence on God and a willingness to submit to His will.

Biblical Foundation
The Bible consistently underscores the importance of humility in the life of a believer. In the Old Testament, humility is often associated with wisdom and the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 22:4 states, "The reward of humility and the fear of the LORD is riches and honor and life." This verse highlights the blessings that accompany a humble heart, linking humility with reverence for God.

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate example of humility. Philippians 2:5-8 exhorts believers to adopt the mindset of Christ: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross." This passage illustrates the depth of Christ's humility, as He willingly set aside His divine privileges to serve humanity and fulfill the Father's redemptive plan.

Practical Application
Approaching God with humility involves acknowledging His greatness and our own need for His grace. James 4:6 reminds us, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" Believers are called to submit to God, resist pride, and draw near to Him with a contrite heart.

In relationships with others, humility manifests as a willingness to serve and prioritize the needs of others above one's own. Ephesians 4:2 instructs, "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." This attitude fosters unity and peace within the body of Christ, reflecting the character of Jesus.

Humility in Prayer
Prayer is a primary context in which believers are called to approach with humility. The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector in Luke 18:9-14 contrasts the self-righteousness of the Pharisee with the humble repentance of the tax collector. Jesus concludes the parable by stating, "For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted." This teaching emphasizes that God values a humble heart over outward displays of piety.

Humility and Leadership
Christian leadership is marked by humility, as leaders are called to serve rather than to be served. Jesus taught His disciples in Matthew 20:26-28 , "It shall not be this way among you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many." This servant-leadership model is foundational for those in positions of authority within the church and beyond.

Conclusion
While a conclusion is not provided, the principles outlined above demonstrate the centrality of humility in the Christian faith. Through the example of Christ and the teachings of Scripture, believers are encouraged to cultivate a humble heart in their relationship with God and others, recognizing that true greatness is found in service and submission.
Subtopics

Approaching

Approaching God

Related Terms

Fitting (29 Occurrences)

Improper (3 Occurrences)

Innocents (2 Occurrences)

Function (4 Occurrences)

Toss (13 Occurrences)

Dogs (30 Occurrences)

Devour (118 Occurrences)

Massacre (1 Occurrence)

Praetorian (2 Occurrences)

Becoming (75 Occurrences)

Celebrate (66 Occurrences)

Children's (28 Occurrences)

Service (317 Occurrences)

Golgotha (4 Occurrences)

Due (93 Occurrences)

Isaac (127 Occurrences)

Throw (135 Occurrences)

Baptismal (1 Occurrence)

Approaching (24 Occurrences)

Galatians (2 Occurrences)

Regeneration (2 Occurrences)

Guard (185 Occurrences)

Ezranehemiah

Ezra-nehemiah

Thanks (151 Occurrences)

Vocation (2 Occurrences)

Zerubbabel (25 Occurrences)

Nourish (16 Occurrences)

Unveiled (7 Occurrences)

Unceasing (11 Occurrences)

Observe (216 Occurrences)

Orator (3 Occurrences)

Operative (2 Occurrences)

Ophir (12 Occurrences)

Joking (3 Occurrences)

Jude (4 Occurrences)

Jehovah (20094 Occurrences)

Judicial (2 Occurrences)

Jackal (3 Occurrences)

Jesting (2 Occurrences)

Lost (85 Occurrences)

Levity (2 Occurrences)

Goodliness (2 Occurrences)

Grows (46 Occurrences)

Gains (19 Occurrences)

Grudge (11 Occurrences)

Graft (1 Occurrence)

Growing (31 Occurrences)

Guardian (5 Occurrences)

Weak (102 Occurrences)

Wrong (391 Occurrences)

Withholds (11 Occurrences)

Increasing (61 Occurrences)

Increases (24 Occurrences)

Interpretation (45 Occurrences)

Inform (24 Occurrences)

Insects (17 Occurrences)

Impair (1 Occurrence)

Inappropriate (1 Occurrence)

Idle (33 Occurrences)

Filthiness (16 Occurrences)

Furnish (8 Occurrences)

Fed (62 Occurrences)

Foreign (65 Occurrences)

Feet (2931 Occurrences)

Friendly (17 Occurrences)

Festival (62 Occurrences)

Fox (2 Occurrences)

Forsake (88 Occurrences)

Hazor (19 Occurrences)

Tact (1 Occurrence)

Town (861 Occurrences)

Text (5 Occurrences)

Tidy (1 Occurrence)

Tables (41 Occurrences)

Required (72 Occurrences)

Resolve (3 Occurrences)

Elder (34 Occurrences)

Ensnare (15 Occurrences)

Approaching the Throne of Grace
Top of Page
Top of Page