Just Possibly the Most Desired Quality in Your Life

You are aware of your responsibility as a Christ follower to not only declare the gospel but to exhibit Christian values. This includes those rather silent expressions that emanate continuously lending validity to your claim and serving as an example of Christ in the flesh. This is a rather ominous task. It requires great reliance on and submission to the Holy Spirit. However, it is not all the work of the Spirit alone; it is a partnership with the Lord. He will do His part in empowering you, strengthening you, and directing you; still, you must give yourself to disciplines and practices that will develop the character of Christ within.

So, where does one begin? What might we consider the most important quality or characteristic for a believer to develop?

Many would immediately suggest it to be love. No doubt love is essential and the scriptures speak loud and long on the necessity of this attribute being expressed and realized in and from our lives. But I would suggest love-true, agape love-to be something that is the result of the work of grace in one's life. Paul tells us it is a fruit of the Spirit, Galatians 5:22, 23. Some would label it the primary fruit. Romans 5:5 declares that the love of God is poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit. And though love is a choice constantly before us, it is also a gift that has been freely given. I contend it is not a quality developed by the individual and demonstrated out of a disciplined life, but rather the work of the Spirit and evidence of God's love within the individual. Like all the fruits listed by the apostle, love is the presence of the Holy Spirit being allowed to flow freely and unhindered in one's life. So, in returning to the original query, let's consider those things that must be developed in one's character, and which might be considered part and parcel of the true believer's existence.

Several qualities come to mind: dependability, punctuality, initiative, work ethic, tenacity, and consistency, to name a few. So, which of these, or which other possibility is truly the key, the primary characteristic in a life most pleasing to the Lord?

One of the most familiar scriptures in the Old Testament is found in Micah 6:8. It reads: "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?" (NASB). To walk how?

The idea of humility is an interesting concept creating some interesting contemplation. I am not addressing some display of false humility, which I believe to be a stench in the nostrils of God. Rather I speak of true humility, which seems to be misunderstood. Though some might interpret humility as a sign of weakness, it is evidence of incredible inner strength. Humility is a feeling or attitude that one has no special importance that makes him or her better than others.' From Mere Christianity I offer a rather famous quote by CS Lewis: "Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less." Further, in describing a truly humble person, Lewis states the individual may be hard to distinguish at first. He suggests, "Probably all you will think about him is that he seemed a cheerful, intelligent chap who took a real interest in what you said to him. If you do dislike him it will be because you feel a little envious of anyone who seems to enjoy life so easily. He will not be thinking about humility: he will not be thinking about himself at all."? That reminds me of a statement I heard as a young man, though I dare not try to offer a direct quote. "Humility is something one possesses until the moment he realizes he has it" — or words to that effect.

So, why might this trait be more critical to a person's character than any other? Let's begin with some basic understanding. Humility is described as the state or quality of being humble, free from pride or arrogance. (Merriam-Webster Dictionary). The opposite or antonyms for the term include words such as arrogance, pride, egotism, and haughtiness. Yikes! We immediately think of God's response toward those who displayed such attitudes. Of course, Lucifer comes to mind; Nebuchadnezzar is a graphic example of this folly. But the scriptures are replete with examples and warnings regarding this character flaw that not only displeases the Lord but brings His judgment.

In considering the importance of humility, and contemplating the best example of the same, we must not move past the apostle's description of the incarnation from a rather spiritual, heavenly viewpoint. We find it in Philippians 2:3-11. You are undoubtedly familiar with this passage. Note, the apostle calls us to "humility of mind," v. 3. Then in verse 5 challenges us to "Have this same attitude in yourselves." He then describes that attitude in action: dismissing His rightful claim in position, Christ emptied Himself of His former existence. "He humbled Himself by becoming obedient…," v. 8. And we know the result: salvation for all who would believe and a name above every name given to the Lord Jesus. This gives rise to a theory I have regarding the spiritual law of humility before honor. I may address that topic in some future articles.

A few decades ago I was privileged to participate in a golf tournament in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, at the famed Sawgrass TPC Golf Course. While there, I experienced one of those ah-ha moments. One evening, preparing for dinner with a group of AG ministers and Convoy of Hope supporters, I walked into a hall leading to the main hotel area. At a quiet spot several yards away, I stood digesting the exquisite view through the floor-to-ceiling windows, conversing with my son via cell phone. At one point, hearing the elevator doors open, I turned to see Dr. Billy Graham with two other gentlemen - ostensibly members of his team -exit the elevator and turn toward the dining room. I mentioned this to my son, who immediately said, "Go, introduce yourself, Dad; you can't miss this opportunity." Well, I was a little hesitant, and much less aggressive than had been suggested, but did conclude the call and follow at some distance as the three men entered the dining area and were escorted to a table.

As it happened, Dr. Graham recognized one of the men seated with the group I had joined and he made his way to the rather long banquet table. After greetings between the two were shared, other ministers rose to shake hands and offer appropriate words. I stood somewhat transfixed watching the process, standing in the aisle between the tables. After everyone had greeted Dr. Graham, he walked directly to me with his hand outstretched. I responded, and then simply stated: "Dr. Graham, it is indeed an honor to meet you, Sir. I want to thank you for raising the bar for all of us in ministry." He stood quietly for a moment, tears forming in his eyes, and with a warm, expressive smile, he simply responded, "Thank you very much." He moved on to join his friends, and I stood, somewhat caught in the moment.

Here was a man who had known audience with presidents, monarchs, prime ministers, and dignitaries from a world far beyond my reach, and yet before me he stood, receptive, grateful, humble. I registered the moment as a historic encounter while coming to understand a little more why God had used this man in such remarkable ways. There was a quality in man's life that afforded God's anointing, opened doors of divine appointments, and paved the way to eternity-changing encounters. That quality was humility.

I pray it to be true for you and me.