Matthew 5:5 & Colossians 3:12 - A study of humility

[AlexB23]

It can be difficult to be humble for some of us in this modern, interconnected world. Social media may make one feel the need to compete. Luckily, I do not use social media, except for Christian Forums.

Date​	April 27, 2024​
Verse​	Colossians 3:12 (ESV): "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience " Matthew 5:5 (ESV): "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth."​
Explanation​	Both Colossians 3:12 and Matthew 5:5 emphasize the importance of humility, meekness, and other virtues in our daily lives as followers of God. ​ Colossians 3:12 calls us to put on the character of God's chosen ones, which includes having compassionate hearts, being kind, humble, meek, and patient. This means that as believers, we are to reflect the qualities of God in our interactions with others. In a self-centered world that prioritizes personal gain, these verses challenge us to put the needs and well-being of others before our own. It's easy to get lost in our own desires and ambitions, but Colossians reminds us that as God's chosen ones, we are called to be different. We are called to love others with the same compassion and kindness that God has shown us. Matthew 5:5, on the other hand, speaks of the blessedness of being meek. Meekness is often misunderstood as weakness or timidity, but it is actually a strength that comes from humility and a deep awareness of our dependence on God. Meekness allows us to receive the blessings of God, including the inheritance of the earth. In a world that values power and personal gain above all else, it can be difficult to embrace meekness. But Matthew 5:5 reminds us that those who are meek will be blessed and rewarded spiritually.
Societal Relevance​	Both of these verses challenge us to live counter-culturally in a self-centered world. They call us to put the needs and well-being of others before our own, to be humble and meek in our interactions with others, and to trust that God will reward us for living according to His values. By embracing these virtues, we can make a positive impact on the world around us and bring glory to God. Here are some steps to begin journeying to humbleness: 1. Humility is a choice to put the needs and interests of others before our own. In the modern world, we can practice humility by volunteering in our community, serving those in need, or simply listening actively and empathetically to others 2. Humility also means recognizing our limitations and weaknesses. We can humble ourselves by acknowledging when we are wrong, seeking forgiveness, and working to improve ourselves. 3. Social media can be a double-edged sword for humility. While it offers opportunities to connect with others and serve, it can also fuel comparison and pride. Practicing humility online might look like unfollowing accounts that make us feel inadequate or using social media to uplift and encourage others. 4. Humility is a posture of openness and teachability. In the workplace, we can humble ourselves by seeking feedback from our colleagues and supervisors, admitting when we don't know something, and being willing to learn from others. Before clocking in, remember Colossians 3:12. 5. Finally, humility is about recognizing our dependence on God. We can humble ourselves by praying regularly, reading Scripture, and seeking to live in obedience to His will. By acknowledging our need for God's grace and mercy, we can cultivate a humble heart that reflects His love and compassion to others.