Counsels on Self-Identity

Counsel #11 — True Humility

Picture: Counsel #11 — True Humility CI 50.1

You’ve probably heard people say, “Be humble,” but what does that actually look like? If you think humility means constantly downplaying your abilities, brushing off compliments, or thinking you’re not good enough, let’s hit pause. That’s not humility. That’s self-abasement, and it’s not healthy. CI 50.2

True humility isn’t about pretending you have nothing to offer. It’s knowing that everything you have is from God, and it’s meant to bless others. That means you can be confident in your gifts without bragging, and honest about your struggles without putting yourself down. Think about it: When someone asks you to help with something you’re good at, do you say, “Oh, I’m not really that great,” even though you know you can do it? This is insecurity disguised as modesty. Humility would say, “Sure, I’d love to help,” and recognize that your ability is a gift from God. The Bible tells us that Jesus was humble, but never insecure. He served with boldness and loved without needing applause. That’s the model, so let’s aim to follow it.^[48] CI 50.3

“Let someone else praise you, and not your own mouth; an outsider, and not your own lips.” Proverbs 27:2 NIV CI 50.4

“True humility is the evidence that we behold God and that we are in union with Jesus Christ.” Ellen White in That I May Know Him , p. 122 CI 50.5

Reflect: What’s one way you can show humility through confidence this week? CI 50.6