Humble, Not Hidden
Which would you rather believe about yourself: that you’re competent and confident, or that you’re uncertain and not very good at anything?
Certainly, it’s the former! The fastest way to be beaten down by life is to expect that you’ll never do anything right. But do you sometimes try to hide how well you can do things because you don’t want people to think you’re proud? Fear of your peers is not the same thing as being humble—it just means you’re afraid. But of what? Of people? Your talent? Of having great success with something? Of standing out?
After all, didn’t Jesus himself say, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven”(Matthew 5:3 ESV)?
Yes. However, Jesus also said, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-15).
In the parable of the talents, Jesus said one servant buried his talent because he was afraid. He didn’t want to be criticized for failing. His master called him “wicked” and “lazy” (Matthew 25:24-26).
Your fear may simply be a matter of not understanding that capable people, through faith, can accomplish great things and still be humble; it’s a matter of motivation and of happily recognizing that no matter how great your accomplishment may be, it is a gift from your Heavenly Father.
An anonymous ancient commentator explained, “One who is poor in spirit and humble of heart has a meek spirit and does not think great things of himself. On the other hand, one who imagines himself to be rich in spirit will imagine great things of himself. He is proud and does not fulfill the commandment of Christ that ‘unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.’ Only one who has repented and become like a child is poor in spirit.”
Pride, whether boastful or concealed, keeps us from submitting ourselves to God and from recognizing that He who is rich in resources has shared them with you; therefore, you’re accountable for the wise use of all you have. That’s certainly in line with how Proverbs 3:7-8 defines humility and promises that obedience to God also brings health and strength to accomplish for God what you would otherwise claim for yourself. “Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil. Then you will have healing for your body and strength for your bones.”
When you live for Jesus and trust him, let go of fear and explore what you’re capable of achieving.
Today, choose to let your light shine!
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