True Humility

Seeing yourself as you really are, and acting accordingly.

if I were to give my definition of Humility, that's what it would be. It's coming to a point where we understand our true position, and letting our actions flow from that position.

Humility is not just simply "being low", but it is being as you really are. It's the absence of false pride. So far I believe most people are with me, but also I believe one can struggle with false humility.

One of my college professors called this idea "Worm Theology". It's when all you focus on is how much of a sinner and a "worm" you are. Where false pride is seeing yourself as better than you are, false humility is seeing yourself as lower than you really are. This professor claimed that we cannot allow "Worm Theology" to kill "Saint Theology". Yes we were worms, and we do still sin and are not perfect, but through the saving Grace of Jesus Christ we are made saints. We are raised up as sons of God, co-heirs with Christ! We are His chosen ambassadors.

We must balance these two ideas: worm theology and saint theology. We are saints and we are pure and forgiven, but still if not for Christ we would continue to be only worms. This dependant exaltation is where we must find our true identity.

I believe this is the balance that James was calling for in James 1:9-11
9 The brother in humble circumstances ought to take pride in his high position. 10 But the one who is rich should take pride in his low position, because he will pass away like a wild flower. 11 For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich man will fade away even while he goes about his business. NIV

Those who are low in the worlds eyes must understand their high position in God, but those who are high in the worlds eyes need to remember that without Christ they are truly low. In all situations we depend on Christ!