Humility is a key theme in the Bible. It teaches us to put others before ourselves, recognize our dependence on God, and live with a servant’s heart. The world often praises power and pride, but God calls His people to a different way of living—one rooted in humility and grace.
Here are some powerful Bible verses about humility and what they teach us.
What is Humility According to the Bible?
Humility is not about thinking less of ourselves but thinking of ourselves less. It means recognizing that everything we have comes from God. In Philippians 2:3, Paul writes:
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”
Jesus Himself is the ultimate example of humility. Though He was the Son of God, He chose to serve others, wash His disciples' feet, and die on the cross for our sins.
Bible Verses About Humility
The Bible is filled with wisdom about humility. Here are some of the most powerful verses that remind us to live humbly before God and others.
1. Humility Brings God’s Favor
God honors those who humble themselves. He lifts them up and gives them His grace.
- James 4:6 – “But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.’”
- 1 Peter 5:6 – “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”
- Proverbs 22:4 – “Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.”
2. Pride Leads to Destruction, But Humility Leads to Wisdom
Pride is dangerous. It causes people to rely on themselves instead of God. The Bible warns against pride and calls us to choose humility instead.
- Proverbs 16:18 – “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”
- Proverbs 11:2 – “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”
- Luke 14:11 – “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
3. Jesus is Our Example of Humility
Jesus showed us the greatest example of humility. He left His throne in heaven to serve others and sacrifice Himself for our salvation.
- Philippians 2:5-8 – “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!”
- Matthew 20:28 – “Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
- John 13:14-15 – “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”
4. Humility Strengthens Our Relationship with God
God desires a humble heart. When we humble ourselves before Him, He draws near to us and strengthens our faith.
- Micah 6:8 – “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
- 2 Chronicles 7:14 – “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
- Psalm 25:9 – “He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.”
How to Grow in Humility
Living humbly is not always easy, but God calls us to practice humility daily. Here are some ways we can grow in humility:
- Serve Others – Look for ways to help and encourage those around you.
- Pray for a Humble Heart – Ask God to help you recognize pride and replace it with humility.
- Study Jesus’ Example – Read the Gospels and follow Jesus’ model of selfless love.
- Admit Mistakes – Be willing to say, “I was wrong” and seek forgiveness.
- Put Others First – Consider others' needs before your own.
Humility is a beautiful quality that brings us closer to God and others. As we strive to live humbly, we reflect the heart of Christ and bring glory to God.
