With Humility Comes Wisdom

There’s an old story about a young minister who shared with his congregation that he was leaving the church for another call. As he was standing outside greeting folks on his final Sunday, one of the elderly women gave him a hug and with eyes full of tears, she lamented, “Oh pastor, I’m so sorry you’ve decided to leave. Things will never be the same.”

The young man was flattered. Trying to comfort her, he took her hands in his and replied, “Bless you, but I am sure that God will send you a new pastor even better than I.” She choked back a sob and was heard to say, “That’s what they all say. But they keep getting worse and worse.”

I love that story. We all need a little dose of humility from time to time. Mainly because pride can have such a destructive effect on our relationships. Think about it. When I have to be right all the time; when it is my way or the highway; when I refuse to even listen to others because obviously, I’m right! That attitude is not only off-putting, it is self-isolating. On the other side of this, a little humility opens our minds. It allows us to truly hear from others, and it can do wonders for our relationships.

Proverbs 11:2 reads, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”

Let us pray: God of Grace, I pray especially for those who are hurting deeply today; and for others who are carrying heavy burdens. Wash over each of us with your grace and grant us your strength. Help us ever approach the complexity and mystery of life with humility and with trust in you. In Christ’s name. Amen.