Proverbs 15:33 The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.
‘The fear of the LORD.’ Fourteen blessings of the Fear of the Lord: It is the beginning of wisdom (1:7; 9:10). It shapes one’s eternal destiny (1:29). It helps a person turn away from evil (3:7; 16:6). It causes hatred of evil (8:13). It prolongs life (10:27). It brings strong confidence (14:26). It is a fountain of life (14:27). It leads to contentment (15:16). It provides instruction in wisdom (15:33). It leads to true life (19:23). It brings riches, honour, and life (22:4). It frees from envy (23:17). It results in blessing and prosperity (Eccl. 8:12; Isa. 33:6). It is marked by humility (Isa. 2:10-21).
‘Before honour is humility.’ Five examples of humility before honour: Joseph – Humbled through slavery and prison before being exalted as ruler (Gen. 39:1-41:57). Gideon acknowledged his lowliness before leading Israel to victory (Jud. 6:15). Daniel – Honoured by God after giving Him all the credit (Dan. 2:30-48). Hananiah – Known for his faithfulness and reverence before being entrusted with leadership (Neh. 7:2). Jesus Christ – Humbled Himself completely before being exalted above all (Php. 2:5-11).
David also stands as a powerful example of humility. Though he was a gifted musician, warrior, commander, king, prophet, and psalmist, he never exalted himself. Instead, he called himself a lowly servant and the son of a mere handmaid of the Lord (Ps. 116:16).
This stands in sharp contrast to many modern leaders who boast of titles, degrees, and spiritual credentials to gain admiration. Unless one is compelled to speak of their gifts, as Paul was out of necessity (2Cor. 11:16-28), it is far better to take the humble path, lifting up Christ rather than self. After all, the Holy Spirit Himself always glorifies Jesus (John 16:13-15).
We are commanded to walk in all lowliness of mind (Eph. 4:2; Acts 20:19; 1Pet. 5:5).
Any form of worship that is chosen by man, apart from true worship of God, is empty (Rom. 1:21-25). Even when such worship appears refined, humble, or ascetic, it lacks the power to conquer sin and the old nature. These forms only feed pride and self-righteousness; they do not change the heart.
Living the Word 