Proverbs 22:4 "By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life."
There are many thoughts concerning the word, humility. The truth is found
within each of our own hearts in relation to our thoughts concerning our
relationship with God. Today's verse bears repeating, "By humility
and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life." Notice the
connecting word between humility and the fear of the Lord. True humility is
concretely bound with the fear (giving honor and reverence) of the Lord. If I
can see myself as I stand before God, then I have a better view of my stance
with others. "All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God."
(Romans 3:23) "There is none righteous, no, not one." (Romans 3:10)
If I understand myself to be within the confines of those two verses, along
with every other individual, then there is no room for haughtiness (pride). If
I can understand that I have sin just as the next person, then I find myself on
equal ground with them. In fact, according to the Apostle Paul, I
am to see myself "in lowliness of mind" and "esteem(ing)
other(s) better than (myself)." (Philippians 2:3)
There is a promise that comes with the stance of humility and giving reverence
to God. You and I are promised "riches, and honour, and life." Again,
we see the connecting word between these three things. By humility, I more
fully experience the riches of God's grace and mercy in my life. There is an
honour bestowed in that the quality of being a child of God is better seen. And
life is more full and complete when we walk humbly with God. How do all these
things come about? I will allow James and Peter to answer that question.
"God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble." (James
4:6)
"Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may
exalt you in due time." (1 Peter 5:6)
Nothing is more satisfying than experiencing the grace and mercy of God as He
lifts us in His loving care.