As was mentioned last week, we need to know what we believe and why. One tool to help in this is doctrine. Jonathan
Edwards, the pastor and theologian, said:
“We must view
humility as one of the most essential
things that characterises true
Christianity.”[1]
The word
humility comes from the Greek words praus
meaning ‘meek,’ and tapeinos meaning ‘low-lying.’ This was
translated into the Latin word humilitas,
a noun related to the adjective humilis, which may be translated as ‘humble,’ but also as ‘grounded,’ or ‘from the
earth,’ since it derives from humus (earth).[2] Parker J Palmer wrote:
“I love the
fact that the word humus-the decayed vegetable matter that feeds the roots of
plants-comes from the same root that gives rise to the word humility. It is a
blessed etymology. It helps me understand that the humiliating events of life,
the events that leave ‘mud on my face’ or that ‘make my name mud,’ may create
the fertile soil in which something new can grow.”[3]
Paul talks
about Jesus’ humility in His obedience to the will of the Father and how we
need to be of the same mindset in Phil 2:1–8.
7 “But
emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the
likeness of men. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, He
humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a
cross” (Phil 2:7-8 NASB).
Can you think of a child that you now explain this doctrine to and could
you encourage them to follow your example of humility?
Pause in His presence for a moment and think this over…
[1] Jonathan Edwards, Faith Beyond Feelings: Discerning the Heart
of True Christianity. Charles W. Coulson & James M. Houston (eds). (Colorado
Springs, CO: Victor, 2005), 153.
[2] “Humility.” http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=humility (18th December 2017).
“Humility.” http://www.biblestudytools.com/dictionary/humility/ (18th December 2017).
[3] Palmer, Parker J. Let Your Life Speak: Listening for the Voice
of Vocation. (Kindle Locations 939-941). Kindle Edition.
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