LIVING A LIFE OF HUMILITY

LIVING A LIFE OF HUMILITY

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Philippians 2:5-11

Supporting Texts: James 4:6, 1 Peter 5:5-6, Proverbs 22:4, Micah 6:8, Matthew 23:12

INTRODUCTION:
Humility is one of the foundational virtues of the Christian life. It is the attitude that aligns us with God’s heart and positions us for honour, grace, and divine elevation. In a world that often celebrates pride, self-exaltation, and personal ambition, God calls His children to walk in lowliness of heart, esteeming others above themselves and submitting to His will above all.

The life of Jesus Christ exemplifies perfect humility. Though He was equal with God, He emptied Himself and became obedient to death on a cross. His humility not only made our salvation possible but also set the standard for every believer to follow. Humility is not weakness; it is strength under control and the doorway to greatness in the kingdom.

God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. Therefore, cultivating humility is essential for every believer who desires to walk closely with God, fulfil divine purpose, and experience lasting promotion. This message explores what it means to live a life of humility and how we can develop it practically in our daily lives.

1. UNDERSTANDING TRUE HUMILITY
Humility is not self-degradation but a realistic view of oneself before God and others.

a) James 4:6 – God Gives Grace to the Humble
Humility invites divine favour and supernatural enablement.

b) Micah 6:8 – Walk Humbly with Your God
It is God’s requirement that we live with a lowly heart.

c) Romans 12:3 – Do Not Think More Highly of Yourself
A humble person has a sober and honest view of themselves.

d) Proverbs 11:2 – With Humility Comes Wisdom
Humility positions you to learn, grow, and receive wise counsel.

Biblical Example: Moses was called the meekest man on earth and God used him greatly because of his humility (Numbers 12:3).

2. THE EXAMPLE OF CHRIST’S HUMILITY
Jesus modelled humility in both attitude and action.

a) Philippians 2:5–7 – He Made Himself of No Reputation
Christ voluntarily laid aside His glory and took on human form.

b) John 13:12–15 – He Washed His Disciples’ Feet
Jesus demonstrated servant-leadership through humble service.

c) Matthew 11:29 – Learn of Me, for I Am Meek and Lowly
Humility is part of the very nature of Christ.

d) Isaiah 53:7 – He Was Oppressed Yet Did Not Open His Mouth
His humility in suffering revealed His strength and trust in God.

Biblical Example: Jesus humbled Himself unto death, and God highly exalted Him (Philippians 2:9–11).

3. PRACTICAL WAYS TO WALK IN HUMILITY
Humility must be cultivated through deliberate choices and disciplines.

a) 1 Peter 5:5 – Clothe Yourselves with Humility
Make humility a visible and consistent part of your character.

b) Matthew 23:12 – Whoever Humbles Himself Will Be Exalted
Choose lowliness even when you deserve recognition.

c) Proverbs 27:2 – Let Others Praise You, Not Your Own Mouth
Avoid self-promotion; let your works speak for you.

d) Colossians 3:12 – Put on Humility as a Daily Garment
It should be part of your spiritual wardrobe as a believer.

Biblical Example: The tax collector who humbled himself in prayer was justified by God, unlike the boastful Pharisee (Luke 18:10–14).

4. REWARDS OF HUMILITY
God honours those who walk in humility with Him and with others.

a) Proverbs 22:4 – Humility Brings Wealth, Honour and Life
Humility is a pathway to prosperity and divine honour.

b) Isaiah 66:2 – God Looks Favourably on the Humble
A humble heart catches the attention of Heaven.

c) Luke 14:11 – The Humble Shall Be Exalted
God lifts those who willingly go low before Him.

d) 2 Chronicles 7:14 – Humility Precedes Healing and Restoration
National and personal revival begins with humble repentance.

Biblical Example: King Hezekiah humbled himself before God, and his life was prolonged (2 Kings 20:1–6).

CONCLUSION:
Living a life of humility is not optional for the believer—it is essential. It draws us nearer to God, opens the doors of favour, and makes us usable in His hands. Humility is choosing God's will over our own, serving others gladly, and never seeking glory for ourselves.

The proud are eventually brought low, but those who walk humbly are lifted by the mighty hand of God. Let us imitate Christ, daily choosing the path of lowliness and trust in God’s timing for exaltation. In humility, you will rise where others fall and shine where others fade.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, teach me to walk in true humility like Christ.
2. Father, remove every seed of pride from my heart.
3. Help me to honour others above myself in love.
4. Grant me the grace to serve You and others with a humble heart.
5. Let humility be the key that unlocks Your favour in my life.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You shall walk in the humility of Christ and receive divine honour!
2. The hand of the Lord will lift you as you stay low before Him!
3. Every spirit of pride is broken off your life in Jesus’ name!
4. God’s grace shall abound toward you as you walk in meekness!
5. You will be preferred and promoted because of a humble heart!