Humility stands in stark contrast to pride, which resides within us almost from birth due to our exposure to the influences of evil and the world. Unlike pride, humility is not a natural trait; it is a created attribute of character that must be deliberately chosen and developed. Spiritual humility arises through contact with God, the presence of His Spirit, and our willing cooperation in submitting to Him. This submission is not merely a suggestion but a clear command, repeated in Scripture, emphasizing its importance due to the strong influence of pride within human nature. Choosing humility is an active decision, just as resisting evil, cleansing our hands, and purifying our hearts are commanded actions. It requires consistent, conscious decisions to submit to God out of love, a sincere desire to be like Him, and a deep yearning to glorify Him. Through God's power and our cooperation, humility is added to our character, enabling us to grow stronger in overcoming pride and its destructive effects on relationships. Humility is not a sign of weakness or shame, but a deliberate control of power to achieve a greater good, as exemplified by God Himself. Despite His supreme glory in every attribute, He stoops to lift up those far beneath Him, demonstrating that humility is a majestic characteristic. This same quality is seen in Jesus Christ, who, though possessing immense power, took on the role of a servant rather than a ruler, showing that humility promotes good relationships by neutralizing pride. The development of humility involves thoughtful self-evaluation, recognizing our complete dependence on God both physically and spiritually. It is not about deeming ourselves worthless in a negative sense, but understanding our utter reliance on Him for every breath and every spiritual need. This honest comparison to God's holiness and Christ's righteousness reveals our poverty of spirit, driving us to bow before Him in submission. Through this process, humility gradually diminishes pride, shaping us into beings more like Him and providing the right basis for living by faith.

Humility is a vital element in living by faith, working over time to neutralize the evil pride lurking within the heart. Being humble is clearly a choice, rooted in poverty of spirit, which implies a dependence upon God to supply spiritual needs that we do not naturally possess or have not developed. This poverty of spirit can only be truly understood by those called of God, as it is through His Spirit that we gain a right evaluation of ourselves and receive the spiritual riches we so greatly need. God's calling enables us to perceive our relation to Him and His awesome purpose for including us in His family, which is essential for making right choices. Humility impresses God, as He responds to its expression in His children toward Him, His ways, and His law. Living in conscious and active dependence on the greatness and sovereignty of God exemplifies humility, giving clear evidence of growth toward the kind of character that glorifies Him. A humble person will not walk with God in pride, but will treat others justly and fairly, show kindness willingly, and remain aware of others' needs. Jesus Christ, despite His greatness, demonstrated dependence on the Father, showing perfect communication and humility by not stepping out on His own without consulting Him. He claimed no equality in authority or rank with the Father, but rather a reliance on Him, even while performing extraordinary acts. This dependence reflects the poverty of spirit that we are to imitate, seeking the Father and the Son for the gifts that enable us to replicate Their character. John the Baptist also exemplified humility by accepting his place in God's purpose, rejoicing in Jesus' success rather than envying it, even as his own role diminished. Similarly, Paul taught the importance of recognizing that any worthwhile qualities in life come from God's calling and Jesus Christ living within, urging believers to humble themselves before God and accept the responsibilities and gifts given to them. Humility is not an inborn trait but a learned quality that requires a conscious decision to humble oneself before God and others, becoming a servant who gives love rather than yielding to pride. This choice is based on seeing God's supremacy over every aspect of His creation, especially oneself and fellow believers, and making a proper evaluation between His supreme spiritual richness and our spiritual poverty. Only through such humility can a person obediently submit to God's instruction and truly live by faith, gaining a truer perspective of oneself. God responds to humility with honor, forgiveness, and the hearing of prayers, ensuring His blessing, as it is an absolute necessity for a family relationship with Him and entry into the Kingdom of God.

Humility is a choice we must embrace, recognizing our limited perspective compared to God's sovereign oversight. We are called to submit to His timing and purposes, understanding that He does everything at the right moment, with perfect care over our lives. His sovereignty extends over individual lives and entire nations, orchestrating events and seasons under His providential care. We must exercise faith and patience, accepting life as it unfolds, knowing that our view is narrow while His is boundless. By submitting to His will, we allow Him to reshape our hearts and minds, trusting that He knows where He is leading us. This submission is not passive but an active choice to let Him have His way, making life meaningful and profitable as we live under His guidance.