Humble

One of my favorite books from my childhood is Charlotte’s Web, by E.B. White.


I love the wonder of what Charlotte does for her unlikely friend.

Not only does she undertake to save the life of her pig-friend, Wilbur, she does it in a way that inspires awe in the people around her.

She uses her web for the good of the one she loves, saving him by the simple power of words. Words like Some Pig. Radiant. Humble.


Humble always sticks out to me. It may be because it’s an odd word to describe a pig. Or it may be because humble and I haven’t been very well acquainted.


I love praise. I love being told I’ve done a good job. I love being told that I am important, valued, accepted. Loved.

I’ve spent my life seeking these words of affirmation. I’ve been so good at making everything all about me, me, me. But you know you can’t spend half your life in the presence of Jesus and not have things like that change.

Oh, you can spend half your life in the presence of Jesus trying to make it all about you, but eventually, He gets to you. He opens your eyes to your selfish ambition and makes you see it for what it really is: pride. Foolish, selfish, destroying pride.


Pride keeps me from putting others before me. Pride keeps me from giving credit to the one who rightly deserves it, because I want it all for myself. Pride keeps me from allowing others their time in the spotlight. Pride keeps me from using my gifts for the good of those around me. Pride keeps me from Jesus.

“Don't push your way to the front; don't sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don't be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.” Philippians 2:3-4

I want to do that. I want to forget myself long enough to lend a helping hand. I want to be so secure in my relationship with Jesus that I can put myself aside and put others ahead of me instead. I want to remember that this life is not about me.

Instead, I want my life to be a reflection of Psalm 131:
"God, I'm not trying to rule the roost, I don't want to be king of the mountain. I haven't meddled where I have no business or fantasized grandiose plans. I've kept my feet on the ground, I've cultivated a quiet heart. Like a baby content in its mother's arms, my soul is a baby content. Wait, Israel, for God. Wait with hope. Hope now; hope always!"

I want to still and quiet my soul. To be like a small child. To be like Jesus.

“Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart,and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:29