Jesus preached and lived humility

Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. (Colossians 3:12 ESV)

In the ancient world of the Greeks and Romans, humility was seen as a negative trait. The honor-shame culture of that time exalted pride, and humility was seen as undesirable.

Jesus, however, redefined humility. He, the Son of God, humbled Himself by becoming human; thus showing that if even He, as exalted as He was, exhibited humility, it was something believers should emulate. His followers in the early church, through His teachings and example, learned to treat humility as a virtue, an important moral attitude, and a fundamental trait of Christian character.

Jesus both preached and lived humility: “For who is the greater, one who reclines at table or one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines at table? But I am among you as the one who serves.” “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

Dictionaries define humility in a variety of ways, such as freedom from pride and arrogance, not thinking you are better than other people, having a modest or low view of one’s importance. A Christian understanding of humility takes on a deeper meaning, as it is based on our relationship with God.

Because we are unconditionally loved by the Lord, we can be honest with Him and ourselves about our strengths and weaknesses, since neither will change God’s love for us. [1]

Humility is not a character trait to develop; it's the natural by-product of being with Jesus. - Louie Giglio

[1] Anchor An Attitude of Humility