True humility is an attractive quality that adds beauty to the Christian life. But how it is misunderstood! So much of what passes for humility is often just low self-esteem, a turning from our God-given gifts.
It is not Christian humility when we despise what God has created good, and has made his beloved.
It is not Christian humility when we reject ourselves as useless, unchangeable, unlovable.
It is not Christian humility when we ignore all that Christ has done for us, gained for us, shared with us.
Yes, indeed, we are called to live honestly before the Lord, and not to try to hide from self and God our fragility and brokenness. But we are also asked to celebrate our God-given greatness and potential.
Look upon yourself as God looks on you – with generous, patient love.
Treat yourself as God treats you – with gentle compassion.
Speak to yourself as God speaks to the you – with words of hope and encouragement, words that speak of daily new beginnings, of possibilities, words that reveal vast interior spaces filled with grace and light.
Beware of false humility!
