Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.1 Peter 5:5-6
These verses contrast pride and humility. By defining some terms and meditating on some truths, we can see clearly to better choose humility and refuse pride in our lives.
Clothed=covered, adorned, to gird, engirdle oneself for labor (the apron being a badge of servitude,) to wear (in token of mutual deference)
In the absence of an actual article of clothing (the apron of servitude,) how can you clothe yourself with humility?
humility=humbleness of mind, humiliation of mind, modesty, lowliness of mind, a deep sense of one’s own unworthiness in the sight of God
Colossians 3:12—humbleness of mind may be put on
To clothe yourself, first take off pride (appearing above others, conspicuous, haughty) and put on humbleness of mind (awareness of who you are in Christ.)
Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?Proverbs 20:6
most men: seek approval and praise, ie—instant gratification
faithful man: patiently waits while committing himself to the task at hand
Isn’t pride a sin of instant gratification? Whereas humility takes patience and faith. “…that He may exalt you in due time.” By choosing pride, you speed up the pleasing result, the exaltation, thereby circumventing God and His will.
So how can we practice humility? We see it begins in the mind by examining your thinking. Filter your thoughts through Philippians 4:8.
What is true? I am secure in God’s love and do not need to seek approval by proclaiming my own achievements.
What is honest? I desire the good opinion and praise of men. This is of the world. (I Jn 2:15-17)
What is just? I will always battle pride, but I have the tools for victory.
What is pure? My purpose is to glorify God. My desire is to please Him. This comes by faith, trusting that delaying the gratification pride brings and choosing humility, which results in God’s best.
What is lovely? Meeting a truly humble person is a beautiful thing. My Savior personified humility (Phil. 2) and is my “lovely” example.
What is of good report? What if my actions and thoughts today were put on a report card which I presented to my Father at the end of the day? Would I ace humility or pride? My God is alone worthy of the praise for He empowers and directs my life.
What has virtue? Humility starts in my mind. Start by praising God with every thought.
What has praise? Thoughts of praise to God are beautiful and set your mind on Him.
Consider how easily we operate out of pride in appearance instead of focusing on the hidden man of the heart. Then choose one area to attack pride in your life!
For God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.
Laura started attending Lehigh Valley Baptist Church as a child when her family moved to the area. For years, her primary passion was in nursing and furthering her education. In the midst of pursuing a medical degree, God changed her plans and she married Jonathan Snow (read their story here). Now, she has discovered a special fulfillment from being a wife and a mother! Truly, God’s ways are always for our good and for His glory.