Humanity and Humility

By Hally Franz –

“Oh Lord, it’s hard to be humble.” Those are the famous words from country music star Mac Davis’s 1980 recording. The song is now over thirty years old. Likewise, the character trait of humility seems almost outdated in today’s society.

Last evening, I taught my early elementary bible class about one of Daniel’s adventures. The familiar story illustrates Nebuchadnezzar’s desperate need to learn the meaning of a dream that had tormented him for many nights. When all his magicians, sorcerers and astrologers tell him they can’t know or interpret the dream, Nebuchadnezzar demands that all the “wise men” be killed. Daniel requests time from the king, during which he and his companions pray to God for mercy and guidance. God answers their prayers, and He shows Nebuchadnezzar’s dream to Daniel in a vision. Daniel then shares the dream and the interpretation with King Nebuchadnezzar, who is amazed by Daniel and wants to honor him greatly. However, Daniel is careful to give the glory and praise to God.

The facts of this story are fascinating, and it would be easy for youngsters to miss the greater, but perhaps less exciting, lesson of humility. After all, our culture does not encourage or foster humility within our young people. Instead, we instruct our children to tell about their accomplishments, and we decorate their rooms with ribbons and trophies, which they receive for nearly every activity in which they participate. As with many issues of parenting, there is a delicate balance to reach when building confidence and teaching humility.

When I think about how I have discussed humility with my children, I recognize that it has primarily been from the perspective of what’s socially acceptable. In other words, I have explained that bragging is not the way to win friends. I probably have not fully emphasized God’s perspective on humility as much as I should have.

It is hard to be humble sometimes, even when we are all far from perfect. Many people don’t value humility, nor do they work toward remaining humble. As parents, let’s put some energy into the humility issue; let’s add it to our parenting goals. It’s not splashy or exciting, but those who appreciate and exercise humility will one day be honored far beyond trophies and ribbons.

PRAYER: Most gracious and glorious Father, help me to provide an example of humility for my children and to train them to be humble servants, so that in their successes throughout life, they will give praise and glory to You.

BIBLE VERSE: “Daniel replied, “No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries. He has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in days to come. Your dream and the visions that passed through your mind as you were lying in bed are these…” (Daniel 2:27-28 NIV).