Humility and Favor

In his book about the White House of President Richard Nixon, Dr. Henry Kissinger wrote that “power increasingly gravitates to those with an almost obsessive desire to win it.” He was speaking of the arrogance and drive associated with many leaders. With a similar perspective, famed historian James MacGregor Burns wrote in a 1978 study that “leadership is fired in the forge of ambition and opportunity.”

Truly, many in the world assume that pride, drive, and ambition are critical to becoming a leader and achieving great things. Yet the Bible tells us that Moses, one of the greatest leaders in history, was known for something completely different. What was his strength? He was more “humble” than anyone else!

As a young man in Egypt, Moses had been proud and confident. But through 40 years as a shepherd in the wilderness, he was molded by God into a man of humility who trusted Him completely. That was why God blessed him and gave him such success.

The world may tell us that if we want to be great, we must be arrogant, proud, and ambitious and must seek power and control. However, to the contrary, those who desire to be used by God must be humble. As James wrote, “Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you” (James 4:10). The Lord honors the humble (Proverbs 15:33), and humility is the path to receiving God’s wisdom: “When pride comes, then comes dishonor, but with the humble is wisdom” (Proverbs 11:2).

Do you want to be great in God’s sight and hear Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant”? Do you want to receive His wisdom and power, blessing, and favor? Then humble yourself before Him. Wholeheartedly commit yourself to serving Him, obeying Him, and doing His will.