Humility – James 1:1

James, a bond-servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes who are dispersed abroad: Greetings.

Our heads swell and our chests puff out in pride in having an association with the rich, famous, or powerful. Star-struck and feeling a vicarious fame, we delight in recounting the details to friends of a noteworthy encounter with someone considered worthy of acclaim by the world.

Contrast our prideful response over a mere brush with the famous and infamous with James’ humble prospective of his relationship to Christ. He starts his letter to the twelve tribes, not by declaring himself, “James, the blood brother of Jesus Christ,” as a recognition-hungry person would have done. Rather, he simply calls himself the bondservant of the Lord. He proclaimed his authority and stature in knowing Jesus Christ, who is great and greatly to be praised, splendid, and majestic, who with God the Father and the Holy Spirit spoke the heavens, earth, and seas into existence.[1] Rather than exalting himself because of his famous brother, James gloried in his excellent position as a servant of Christ. His joy and pride were in the privilege of bowing his knee at the name of Jesus and confessing, to the glory of God the Father, that Jesus Christ is Lord.[2]  He boasted in Christ, and in Christ alone.[3]

Emulate the brother of Christ. Find your glory and fame in the honor of serving the Father through your devotion to His Son, Jesus Christ,[4] being diligent in good works, fervent in spirit, abundant in hope, faithful in difficulties, and committed to prayer.[5] Boast not in your accomplishments or high position, but rather commend yourself as a servant of God,[6] rejoicing in His majesty.

Humble yourself before the Lord. Refuse to appropriate His glory to yourself, for the glory to come far exceeds the tiny portion we might grasp for a moment by promoting ourselves as deserving of what rightfully belongs to God. Rather than chasing after that which you do not deserve and cannot keep, delight in your position in Christ, and in the proper time, you will stand arrayed in glory before the King of kings as this King Himself lifts you up and exalts you.[7]

[1] 1 Chronicles 16:25-27

[2] Philippians 2:10-11

[3] 1 Corinthians 1:31

[4] Philippians 3:14

[5] Romans 12:11-13

[6] 2 Corinthians 6:4

[7] James 4:10