Text: Mathew 5:5

Topic: How humility affects our lives

Introduction

• Contemporary American society does not agree with what Scripture says about pride.
  • Illustration: John MacArthur discusses an MTV production exploring what celebrities think of the seven deadly sins.
• Big Idea: Being humble doesn't mean you think less of yourself, it means you think of yourself less.
• (Transition: Today, we're going to examine three ways to live out humility.)

Humility enables us to do what is needed regardless of recognition.

• Those who are humble do not act out of a need for praise.
  • Illustration: An article in LIFE magazine highlights a man named Dan Dyer who faithfully worked behind the scenes of a large hospital, even through hurricane Hugo.
• Churches are filled with faithful people who work behind the scenes and receive almost no recognition for their efforts.

Humility enables us to be grateful for what we have.

• Many people still do not realize that affluence does not guarantee happiness.
  • Illustration: A poor mother and daughter were content with one orange in their Christmas stocking year after year.
• Humility helps us to recognize that all of life is a gift.
• We can delight in small pleasures when we think of ourselves less.

Humility enables us to put our trust in God.

• Pride is our deadliest enemy because it causes us to trust ourselves rather than God.
  • Illustration: A missionary, on the way to China, is blessed with a dream that helps her to put her trust in God.

Conclusion

• Christian humility is an invitation to work behind the scenes, to appreciate the simple blessings of life, and to trust in God.