If you respect and serve the Lord, you will become wise. If you are humble, people will respect you. Proverbs 15:33, English Bible for the Deaf

 

What are the qualities that you admire in people?

 

For me, humility is one that always stands out. In a world where every cock will crow upon his own dunghill, humility is not always easy to find.

 

Many people are constantly seeking fame, recognition, public success, admiration and attention. And yes, it feels good when hard work is noticed. It’s nice to be praised when you do well at work. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that. I, for one, will happily jump higher if someone applauds me! Feeling seen, receiving recognition and reaching the goals you’ve set for yourself can be incredibly motivating, as long as success doesn’t make you look down on others or treat them poorly.

 

Recently, someone who won a competition made a derogatory remark about one of my friends. This person doesn’t even know her at all, he just made a hurtful comment about her appearance to be funny. My colleague heard about it and was deeply hurt. The irony is that the person who made the remark is very outspoken about acceptance and embracing people’s differences.

 

Hearing about this incident was so disappointing, and it reminded me again about how important and beautiful humility is.

 

People notice humility, and yes, I agree with this verse in Proverbs. People respect those who remain humble despite their success and achievements.

 

Prayer: Lord, help me to remain humble, even when I enjoy being seen and praised. Amen.