Humility and Inferiority

2 Corinthians 11:5; 12:11

Having “humility of mind” is really an attitude, isn’t it? It’s a preset mentality that determines ahead of time thoughts like this:

“I care about those around me.”

“Why do I always have to be first? I’m going to help someone else win for a change.”

“Today, it’s my sincere desire to curb my own fierce competitive tendencies and turn that energy into encouraging at least one other person.”

“I willingly release my way this day. Lord, show me how You would respond to others, then make it happen in me.”

Now, before we get neck deep into this unselfish lifestyle, we need to determine if it is, in fact, promoted in Scripture. Does the Bible come right up front and encourage living like this? I’ll let youdetermine the answer. As you examine these few New Testament passages, read them slowly . . . and don’t skip one line!

Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor. (Romans 12:10)

For we do not preach ourselves but Christ Jesus as Lord, and ourselves as your bond-servants for Jesus’ sake. (2 Corinthians 4:5)

For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. (Galatians 5:13)

Let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds. (Hebrews 10:24)

Those words (there are many others) have a rare ring to them, don’t they? In fact, some who read those verses might misunderstand and think I’m advocating inferiority. For your sake, a couple more biblical passages are needed:

For I consider myself not in the least inferior to the most eminent apostles . . . . I have become foolish; you yourselves compelled me. Actually I should have been commended by you, for in no respect was I inferior to the most eminent apostles, even though I am a nobody. (2 Corinthians 11:5; 12:11)

There’s the balance we’re looking for. Authentic humility in no way should be confused with incompetence or lack of self-esteem. As a matter of fact, it is doubtful that anyone who wrestles with an unhealthy self-image can correctly and adequately give to others.

Inferiority and unselfishness cannot coexist.

I doubt that anyone who wrestles with an unhealthy self-image can adequately give to others.

Charles R. Swindoll Tweet This

Taken from Improving Your Serve by Charles R. Swindoll. Copyright © 1981 by Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. Used by permission of Thomas Nelson. www.thomasnelson.com

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Accuracy, clarity, and practicality all describe the Bible-teaching ministry of Charles R. Swindoll. Chuck is the chairman of the board at Insight for Living and the chancellor of Dallas Theological Seminary. Chuck also serves as the senior pastor of Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, Texas, where he is able to do what he loves most—teach the Bible to willing hearts. His focus on practical Bible application has been heard on the Insight for Living radio broadcast since 1979.