S11P7 – The action of love: humble self-awareness

Romans 12:16
Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty [conceited, self-important, exclusive], but associate with humble people [those with a realistic self-view]. Do not overestimate yourself.

Biblical instruction on fruitful relationships is often common sense. This verse directs us to focus on humility in relationship in two different ways. First, we are told to be without conceit for ourselves. Next, we are told to surround ourselves with others who are humble. Finally, we are reminded to esteem ourselves as we actually are. All of this begs that we keep a realistic view of ourselves and of others. This means having an understanding of how God created and sees people.

God welcomes all who accept Him and does not show favoritism in bestowing the blessing of salvation [Acts 10:34-35]. He is a creator who loves all those He created equally. Was it not for every member of humanity that He sent his Son [John 3:16]? Carrying this perspective, God’s own perspective, means that we accept we are no better or worse than anyone else. Relationships that are truly founded on such equality of worth will be devoid of pride, envy and covetousness. But in order to walk this out, we must honestly believe this truth. We cannot fake it until we make it.

God is three persons, ever-existing in perfect unity and harmony. Who better to instruct us on how to have fruitful and loving relationships with one another? We cannot ignore the humility required for God the Son, although perfect, to place himself in submission to God the Father and come to earth as a man to be sacrificed for the sake of imperfect humanity. Father, keep us striving for the humility that your Son so perfectly illustrated, that we might walk humbly and be fruitful in the relationships that you have ordained for us.