Humility is a path we choose and perhaps best described as a series of choices. Webster defines humility as “the quality or condition of being humble.” Humility is a choice. The Scriptures call us to a life of discipleship and a path of dying to oneself. This path never truly ends. In fact, the desire to make humble choices should become more intense as we mature in our understanding of the high calling of following Jesus. We are called to pick up our cross. Humility is an expression of that process.
Developing humility has become more important to me in recent years and I’ve taken cues from several of our board members. Our founding board chairman, Peter Ochs, and current board chairman, Todd Peterson, have served as mentors that exemplify humility — for me and for our staff. Our board members give so much of themselves and sacrifice so much for the work of Bible translation, it is humbling.
During our recent board meetings I was able to share news from the World Prayer Assembly in Jakarta, Indonesia. I’ve been receiving emails and texts from our prayer team. We were able to send three of our prayer intercessors to represent The Seed Company. They are witnessing people groups — even those from nations historically at odds — come together to sing blessings over one another as an expression of unity. What a posture of humility! Go God!
We’re nearly halfway through the year and I can’t help but reflect over the great things God has done on behalf of the Bibleless. As an organization, we began the year with a 40-day devotion inspired by the writings of Andrew Murray. One of our investing partners had given me a copy of Murray’s book titled Humility: The Journey Toward Holiness. His words leapt off the page and convicted my heart.
Choosing humility is a daily battle. It‘s nonnegotiable for servants and all believers are servants. As leaders who value humility, we understand where our abilities come from. Jesus always glorified the Father. I want to follow His example. Humility is a path we choose.
“For the LORD delights in his people; he crowns the humble with victory” (Psalm 149:4, NLT).
