Message from Lois Leader, High School Teacher

Devotions: Humility


I recently did research on the issue of bullying in schools for a class I am taking. My research brought to light some interesting facts about the nature of bullies that I found surprising. Past theories on the cause of bullying have centered on it being a problem with low self-esteem, but recent research is calling that into question. Often bullies have an inflated sense of self-importance, believing they have a right to impose their will on others. They also thrive on recognition and a sense of “fame” among their peers.

These insights caused me to look into what Scripture says about self-image and celebrity. I like to take a theme and examine it through the Old Testament, Gospels and Letters. The following three verses underline a Scriptural view of self-esteem and provide a definite contrast to the view of our culture.

Proverbs 11:2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace; but wisdom is with the humble.

Luke 14:10-11 But when you are invited, go and sit down at the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he may say to you, “Friend, move up higher”; then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at the table with you. For all who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

Philippians 2:3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard others as better then yourselves.

Of course the greatest, and only true role model for Godly self-esteem is Christ: “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death, even death on a cross!” Philippians 2:6-8