Humility: Finding Your God-Given Space in the World

In Hebrew, the concept of humility—avanah—focuses on occupying your God-given space in the world. Being humble infers not overestimating yourself or your abilities as well as not underestimating them either. A humble person feels little need to brag, preferring to let his/her actions speak for themselves. A humble person is both highly self-aware and in-tune situationally.

Humble people realize that no one cares until they realize how much you care. They invest in people by putting others first while focusing on the overall journey. They talk less and listen more.

That said, it is a misconception that a humble person lacks opinions or is timid. Humble people speak their mind. They recognize the necessity of having hard conversations. Humble people understand that in order to resolve problems, people must find ways to close the gap that stands between unwillingness and willingness. Otherwise, nothing happens.

Able to ask for help, humble people accept responsibility and welcome feedback. They are always willing to learn and do better.

Humble people, regardless of the result, always find a way to show appreciation by saying “thank you.” They serve with an abundance mentality rather than viewing everything as a zero-sum effort. Humble people value communication and collaboration more than they value being singled out and getting credit.

Let’s face it—we could use more humility in many aspects of our communities, organizations, and government. We could achieve real milestones if we focused more on achieving the result rather than who receives the credit.

When you recognize that you are occupying your God-given space, than you are at one with the Lord, allowing every activity to be an expression of worship. That is what it means to truly experience being a Christian living in the 21st century.

I pray the Lord shines His favor upon you today.

Blessings,

The Devotional Guy™

After wearing many different hats throughout his career, Rainer serves as the Senior Operations Manager at OurCalling, Inc., a Dallas-based homeless outreach helping the chronically homeless find a way off the streets and into a deeper relationship with Jesus. Since committing his life to Jesus in 2007, Rainer has had the privilege of teaching and preaching in many different churches in the Dallas area. He also serves as a mentor for those looking to grow more confident in their faith. Rainer is a visual artist whose work has been displayed in various places throughout Richardson, Texas where he and his wife, Terri, share a home with their pet menagerie. The Devotional Guy website is available to encourage and help others grow spiritually.