The Basis for Humility

October 11, 2019

For who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not? 1 Corinthians 4:7 

The idea of the self-man is deeply rooted in the American dream. The idea was birthed by Benjamin Franklin. Frederick Douglass, an African American born into slavery who rose to be one of the greatest intellectuals and leaders of his day, gave his own definition of the self-made man: “Self-made men … are the men who owe little or nothing to birth, relationship, friendly surroundings; to wealth inherited or to early approved means of education; who are what they are, without the aid of any of the favoring conditions by which other men usually rise in the world and achieve great results.”

That is thought-provoking. And we all certainly know some people who fit that definition far more than most. But is it truly possible to be self-made and owe nothing to anyone or anything? Do you view yourself as a self-made man or woman? If you do, you may want to take another look in the mirror. What’s wrong with the “self-made” theory? Everything. If your pride, ego, arrogance, insecurity, or ignorance keeps you from recognizing the contributions of others, then it’s time for a wake-up call. 

While I don’t question for a moment the legendary success of people like Frederick Douglass and many like him, I see little evidence that the success is solely a matter of “self.” Behind every success are significant investments and contributions by family, friends, associates, enemies, agitators, advisors, teachers, authors, mentors, coaches, and the list could go on. Other than in a Rambo movie, there is no such thing as an army of one.

Most significantly, God is there for every single person. As Paul so eloquently asked, “Who has the ability to claim anything apart from God?” He is the One who directs or permits everything that happens in our lives. The people, the opportunities, the gifts—all of it comes from His hand, or with His permission. Paul asks a probing question: “Why do you act as though you did it yourself?”

Pride pushes us to claim personal credit for where we are when it’s a good place, and often blame others or God when it is a bad place. God and people are key players in getting us where we are. Have the humility and grace to see it and own it. It’s liberating.

• Honestly scan your life for the people God has used to lift you up. Thank a couple of them today.
• Look for God’s extraordinary presence, even in things that only later proved to be a blessing. Thank Him.