James Says

Vol. 4
Be a Person that is Humble

Take a few minutes today to read through the following scripture, short message, and reflect on the questions below. 

James 3:13-18 (NIV)

13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 14 But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15 Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.

17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

In the book of Philippians, we find the greatest example of humility in the life of Jesus. He never used his equality with God as a means of superiority. Instead, he chose to serve others and was willing to suffer for us.

Whatever humility looks like, its defining characteristic is wisdom. So, what does humility look like in our lives? James tells us: “Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.”

If our so-called “wisdom” makes us proud instead of humble, it’s not wisdom from heaven.

If it makes us stubborn instead of teachable, it’s not wisdom from heaven.

If it makes us abrasive instead of gentle, it’s not wisdom from heaven.

And if it leads to judgment over mercy, then it is not wisdom from heaven.

Reflection Questions

  1. Have you ever found yourself relying on a sense of superiority to accomplish a task or influence an outcome? How might humility shape your approach instead?

  2. What does it truly mean to humble ourselves in service to others—even those we might see as different from us in intellect or values?

  3. What is one practical way that you can walk in humility this week?