We begin our journey with Jesus with salvation. As wonderful and miraculous as that is, it is just the beginning. What follows is an onward journey of sanctification – the process of spiritual formation, growth and maturity. God does this work in us, confirming us to His character from the inside out. However, it does require co-operation on our part.
Spiritual formation is an intentional process. This summer my goal is to focus on practicing the virtues of Christ. Paul talks about some of these virtues and how we must choose to put them on in Colossions 3:12. Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
If Christlikeness is our destination, the virtues are the pathway. There are many, but the one that is called Chief among the virtues is HUMILITY. So I am starting with that. Here are some thoughts about the virtue of humility.
- The practice of humility is the lifelong, arduous work of remembering our place beneath the sovereignty and authority of God.
- Jesus is our ultimate example to true humility.
- We don’t become humble, we learn to practice humility.
- Humility looks like whole hearted dependence on God. Acknowledging and living by this – that the root, fruit and maintenance of our faith is dependent of God’s work, favor and strength.
- Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less.
- To embrace humility is to be liberated from the insatiable search for self significance.
- The more we get ourselves out of the way, the more God’s power can flow through us.
- Practicing humility enables us to find fulfillment in who God made us to be and the tasks He has given us to do, without falling into the trap of comparison and discontent.
How can you clothe yourself with humility this week? I encourage you to ask God to grow you in this area and then co-operate with Him as He does the work in you.