Topical Encyclopedia
Humility is a central theme in the Bible, representing a virtue that is highly esteemed by God. It is the quality of having a modest view of one's own importance and is often associated with meekness, lowliness, and submission to God's will. The Bible consistently teaches that humility is essential for a right relationship with God and others.
In the Old Testament, humility is exemplified by figures such as Moses, who is described as "a very humble man, more so than any man on the face of the earth" (
Numbers 12:3). The Psalms frequently highlight the importance of humility, as seen in
Psalm 25:9: "He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them His way."
The New Testament further emphasizes humility through the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. In
Philippians 2:5-8, believers are encouraged to adopt the mindset of Christ, who "humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross." Jesus' life and ministry were marked by humility, as He served others and submitted to the Father's will.
James 4:6 underscores the importance of humility by stating, "God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble." This verse highlights the divine favor that accompanies a humble heart. Similarly,
1 Peter 5:6 advises, "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you."
Humility is not only a personal virtue but also a communal one. It fosters unity and peace within the body of Christ, as believers are called to "do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves" (
Philippians 2:3).
ProvisionProvision in the biblical context refers to God's faithful supply of the needs of His people. It encompasses both physical and spiritual sustenance, demonstrating God's care and sovereignty over creation.
The Old Testament is replete with examples of God's provision. In
Genesis 22:14, Abraham names the place where God provided a ram in place of Isaac "The LORD Will Provide," signifying God's ability to meet needs in unexpected ways. The Israelites' journey through the wilderness is another testament to divine provision, as God supplied manna from heaven and water from a rock (
Exodus 16:4, 17:6).
The Psalms often celebrate God's provision, as in
Psalm 23:1, "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want." This imagery of God as a shepherd underscores His role as a provider and protector.
Psalm 34:10 further assures, "The young lions may lack and go hungry, but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing."
In the New Testament, Jesus teaches about God's provision in the Sermon on the Mount. In
Matthew 6:31-33, He instructs, "Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’... But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." This passage emphasizes trust in God's provision as a priority over material concerns.
The apostle Paul also speaks of God's provision in
Philippians 4:19, assuring believers, "And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." This promise reflects the sufficiency of God's resources to meet the needs of His people.
Throughout Scripture, God's provision is not limited to material needs but extends to spiritual nourishment and salvation. Jesus, the Bread of Life, offers eternal sustenance to those who believe in Him (
John 6:35). Thus, provision in the Bible is a multifaceted concept, encompassing God's comprehensive care for His creation.
