Topical Encyclopedia Humbleness, often synonymous with humility, is a virtue highly esteemed in the Bible and is considered a foundational aspect of Christian character. It involves a modest view of one's own importance and a recognition of one's dependence on God. The Bible presents humbleness as an essential quality for believers, contrasting it with pride, which is often depicted as leading to downfall and separation from God.Old Testament Insights In the Old Testament, humbleness is frequently associated with wisdom and the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 22:4 states, "The rewards of humility and the fear of the LORD are wealth and honor and life." This verse highlights the blessings that accompany a humble heart, suggesting that true prosperity is found in a life oriented towards God. The prophet Micah encapsulates the essence of humbleness in Micah 6:8 : "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" Here, walking humbly with God is presented as a fundamental requirement for living a life pleasing to the Lord. New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of humbleness. Philippians 2:5-8 describes how Jesus, though being in the form of God, "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 underscores the depth of Christ's humility and serves as a model for believers to emulate. Jesus also taught about humbleness in His parables and teachings. In Matthew 23:12 , He declares, "For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." This principle is a recurring theme in Jesus' teachings, emphasizing that true greatness in the kingdom of God is achieved through humility. The Apostle Peter exhorts believers to adopt a humble attitude in 1 Peter 5:5-6 : "Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you." This passage highlights the relational aspect of humbleness, encouraging believers to practice humility in their interactions with others and before God. Practical Application Humbleness is not merely an internal disposition but is expressed through actions and attitudes. It involves serving others selflessly, acknowledging one's limitations, and being open to correction and guidance. James 4:10 advises, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you." This call to action suggests that humbleness is a deliberate choice, one that invites God's favor and blessing. In the Christian community, humbleness fosters unity and peace. Ephesians 4:2-3 urges believers to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, and with diligence to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Here, humbleness is integral to maintaining harmony and love within the body of Christ. Conclusion While the Bible does not provide a single definition of humbleness, it consistently portrays it as a vital attribute for those who seek to live in accordance with God's will. Through the examples of biblical figures and the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, believers are encouraged to cultivate a humble heart, recognizing that it is through humbleness that one draws nearer to God and experiences His grace and exaltation. Topical Bible Verses James 1:21Why lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. Topicalbible.org Matthew 11:29 Hebrews 13:17 Ephesians 2:8 1 John 1:9 Romans 3:23 Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) The quality of being humble; humility; meekness.Greek 5012. tapeinophrosune -- lowliness of mind, humility ... humility From a compound of tapeinos and the base of phren; humiliation of mind, ie Modesty -- humbleness of mind, humility (of mind, loneliness (of mind). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5012.htm - 7k Library Concerning Lowliness of Mind. On Infants' Early Deaths. On his Birthday, ii. : Delivered on the Anniversary of his ... Hebrews vi. 3-Jan we have not only so high a pattern, but so excellent a motive Man's Greatness and God's Greatness. Festal Letters. Of the Means of Belief His Servants Shall Serve Forgiveness Thesaurus Humbleness (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) The quality of being humble; humility; meekness. Multi-Version Concordance Humbleness (1 Occurrence). ... /h/humbleness.htm - 6k Lowliness (9 Occurrences) Exalt (56 Occurrences) Mercies (62 Occurrences) Bowels (40 Occurrences) Longsuffering (17 Occurrences) Meekness (14 Occurrences) Elect (32 Occurrences) Humbles (7 Occurrences) Humble-mindedness (3 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about humility? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about how to humble yourself? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about ego? | GotQuestions.org Humbleness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Humbleness (1 Occurrence)Colossians 3:12 Subtopics Related Terms |
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