The Sunday Guardian

To lose humility is devaluing oneself

- By Rev. Dr. Richard Howell

To accept responsibi­lity for our behaviour adds value to our living. It brings personal peace because we will not be on a defense mode since we will have nothing to hide.

We can be authentica­lly ourselves, and allow others to see inside of us. We will also be at peace with others because we will look for and recognise the good qualities in others rather than having an over-inflated opinion about ourselves.

We gain favour with God, as king David wrote, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise” (Psalm 51:17).

God wants transparen­cy in the lives of his people. Because we are transparen­t with God and others we accept our shortcomin­gs and are not afraid of censure. When we practise humility, it is easy to be compassion­ate to others when we face their failings. We all struggle in some areas of our life.

Humility is one of the finest and greatest qualities in a person. To lose it is devaluing oneself. It is like the oil in a machine. It lasts longer, runs quieter, and gets the job done. It works rather than squeaks. Sometimes it is better to be quiet and be considered wrong, even when we could prove our innocence than to speak out in justificat­ion. Sometimes it is better to just swallow hard and wait for time to prove us right.

Guilt cannot be removed from a person without first humbling himself, admitting, confessing and forsaking. God forgives us when we repent and confess our wayward ways.

Only a broken heart will rehabilita­te the guilty and build a just society, family, or business. As we practise humility, we’ll reflect Christlike character; it’s a pre-requisite for great leadership. The real value and beauty of our character is revealed when we practise humility.

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