Humble. Meek. Do we really know what these words mean? Or do you think you know? And what kind of behavior demonstrates these words? It would be my contention that most people really don’t know what the definitions are nor what behavior accompanies them. Mostly it’s a reaction to both words demonstrating negative connotations.
Always remember that there are spiritual and carnal definitions of the same word – often with no semblance of similarity. Webster:
Humble: “not proud or haughty : not arrogant or assertive; reflecting, expressing, or offered in a spirit of deference or submission a humble apology; ranking low in a hierarchy or scale : insignificant, unpretentious
Synonyms: Adjective – demure, down-to-earth, lowly, meek, modest, unassuming, unpretentious
Meek: “enduring injury with patience and without resentment : mild a meek child dominated by his brothers; deficient in spirit and courage; submissive; not violent or strong; moderate
Synonyms – demure, down-to-earth, humble, lowly, modest, unassuming, unpretentious
Scripture’s descriptions, definitions:
Humble
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” (Colossians 3:12)“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” (Ephesians 4:2)
“But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” (James 4:6)
“Live in harmony one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.” (Romans 12:16)
“Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.” (1Peter 5:6-7)
Does this give you a better context and expression of what humble is and means? Does it give you examples of the types of behavior that define humble? Who are you expressing your humility toward – God? Man? Both?
Meekness
“Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5)“… but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God.”
(1 Peter 3:4)“So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” (Colossians 3:12)
Completely different from what we think these words are ‘supposed’ (commonly held misconceptions) to be and to Whom it is expressed. Especially when you are questioning… look first to how the word is explained and expressed in scripture. Humility is never, as in ever, a negative – something that is demeaning. Humility is a gentleness of spirit, expressed in understanding.
