In our 'selfie society', expressions of genuine humility can be far and few between. We're used to seeing celebrities pictured raising money for charitable causes or fronting worthy campaigns to help communities in need. And while in part this can be down to a sincere attempt to use their platforms for good, it's easy to be sceptical about motives when the efforts come from those within an image obsessed industry.
Undoubtedly, some celebrities truly care about the causes they campaign for but others are possibly more concerned about the boost that being the face of something will give to their brand. It's not just celebrities that can become preoccupied with what their supposedly humble acts encourage others to think about them; us non-celebs can be just as guilty of this too.
Our motives for sharing news of how we've carried out a good deed can be as much about inspiring and encouraging others as they can be about improving our social status. Referring to one of Jesus' great humble acts, the washing of his disciples' feet, Pope Francis said: "Love isn't words, but works and service, a humble service performed in silence and in a hidden manner."
When we scratch beneath the surface of our good deeds, we don't want to discover that they're more about ourselves than the ones we claim to serve. Let these Bible verses on authentic humility refresh your memory about what it really means.
Philippians 2:3-4 - Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
Luke 14:11 - For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.
John 3:30 - He must become greater; I must become less.
Romans 11:18 - Do not consider yourself to be superior to those other branches. If you do, consider this: You do not support the root, but the root supports you.
2 Corinthians 11:30 - If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.
Luke 14:10 - But when you are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he will say to you, 'Friend, move up to a better place.' Then you will be honoured in the presence of all the other guests.
John 13:16 - Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.
Proverbs 27:2 - Let someone else praise you, and not your own mouth; an outsider, and not your own lips.
