What Is Wrong With Humility? (By Gary Patterson)

 

What Is Wrong With Humility? 

(By Gary Patterson) 

Mark 9:33-37

Orig.Post Date: 3/17/2014 

 Before they arrived at Capernaum, the disciples got into an argument about "who would be the greatest."(vv.33,34) Our first thought may be; how could grown men be so focused on a competition such as this? There minds were focused on an earthly kingdom, while Jesus was headed to a cross, to bring forth victory for God's kingdom. But before we begin to criticize the disciples for their mis-guided pursuit, we need to take a look at the attitude of our society, and the thinking of church members today. 

The attitudes of self-centeredness, conceit, and competition is so dominant, its like a thick fog that infests every circle of our society. We need to sit down with Jesus, and let Him tell us, (along with the disciples) "If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all, and servant of all." (v.35) 

 He brought before them a child to use as an example of one who is dependent.(vv.35,36) Jesus in essence is saying; "Don't look at what people can do for you, but what you can do for people." (John F. Kennedy had a similar line in his inaugural address) 

 Look at yourself as a servant, instead of expecting people to work at meeting your needs, and making you look important. So what's wrong with being humble? James writes: "God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble." (James 2:6) 

 It is one of the most beautiful virtues. It does in its own way, exalt us, and place us in a very honorable place, in the hearts of people. When you hear the words, "he/she always thought of others, always placed others ahead themselves." I can't think of a better compliment than that. 

 Pursuing humility is pursuing the character of Jesus Christ. In every aspect of His life, from His birth, to His resurrection, He radiated humility. If one realizes how important they are to Jesus, he/she will pursue what is important to Jesus; to be a servant in His Kingdom, and exhibit great humility. GP 

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