Proverbs 15:33: The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom, and before honor is humility.
Insight
As the child of God realizes the presence of a holy God, he will be full of humility. Indeed, no Christian grace can exist without it. Every dispensation of God strikes at the root of self-exultation. Our Father’s discipline is so wise: Humility comes before honor. Indeed, without humility, honor would be our temptation rather than our glory. “The lower then any descend in humiliation, the higher they shall ascend in exaltation. The lower this foundation of humility is laid, the higher shall the roof of honor be overlaid” (Cope). Our Lord followed this same path. He endured the cross before he was rewarded with his crown. 1
Application
We learned a similar truth in Proverbs 18:12: “Before destruction the heart of a man is haughty, and before honor is humility.”
Is there an absence of humility in your life? Not sure? Your answers to these questions may help. Are you still striving to impress others? Are you overly concerned with your appearance? Do you get really upset when someone cuts in front of you? Is it difficult to follow the leading of someone in authority? Do you joyfully serve others in the fellowship with consistency and with unconditional love? Is it hard to be a faithful servant when you are not recognized for the things you do?
Motivation
For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted. Luke 14:11
Humility bows and honors others, pride stands and sees no others. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Father, may I continue to learn about humility through the power of Your cross.
1. Bridges, C. (2001). Proverbs. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
