Thinking about humility today. I'm wondering if it's something we value as a culture. To be honest, as I think about my close relationships, I don't think the topic comes up much. I know that humility is not something I possess in great measure but would really like to have more of. After all, it's one of those things we're supposed to "clothe" ourselves with (Col 3).
I think in terms of arrogant people, it takes one to know one. So I smile secretly to myself when I criticize and distrust other leaders for their pride. I'll know I've attained humility when I can let go of that critical impulse.
I also think humility can't be taught, only modeled. It has NEVER helped me to have people point out my pride to me. But it is endlessly helpful for me to watch humble people. They are my favorite types, the people I most admire. My ministry is full of them. When I'm around my WDA colleagues, I just want to be taught, to learn humility. They have all the passion, zeal, and knowledge that I have at 28 tempered with this amazing release of power and control and eyes looking toward a heavenly country.
Here's what I've come to believe in my culture: humility is for the weak, the vulnerable, the foolish. Humility is a temporary state for students. Once you have achieved expert status, you have to hold onto it. Don't show weakness or uncertainty. Hold your head high, speak boldly, be admired, don't take guff from anyone.
So even though I should know better, I've lived my Christian life trying to "outgrow" humility. Come to find, it's the biggest thing I have yet to "grow into."
How about you? What do you think?
