Don’t Let Humility Be an Act

Humility is one of the most beautiful virtues we can cultivate in our walk with the Lord. It’s a quiet strength and a grounding force. At its best, humility reflects our recognition of who we are in light of God’s greatness.

But here’s the thing—true humility isn’t something we put on like a mask, hoping to impress the people around us. Real humility flows from our heart, not from our agenda.

In Matthew 6:1, Jesus says, “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.” His words cut straight to the heart of the matter. Humility loses its power and purpose when it becomes a performance.

Authentic humility isn’t about appearing modest or downplaying our gifts; it’s about living with a sincere awareness of our dependence on God and treating others with the same love and grace we’ve received from Him. When humility is just an act, it seeks something in return—recognition, influence, or admiration. When it’s genuine, it only seeks to serve and glorify God.

Proverbs 4:23 HCSB

Guard your heart above all else,
for it is the source of life.

Think about the difference between a leader who humbly serves their team and one who “humbly brags” to win favor. The first builds trust and fosters love. The second? They leave a trail of cynicism and distrust in their wake.

How do we make sure our humility is authentic and not just a show?

1. Examine Your Motives. Why are you doing what you’re doing? Are you serving to glorify God or to elevate your own image?
2. Embrace Accountability. Let trusted people in your life challenge you and call you out when necessary. Authenticity thrives in community.
3. Look to Jesus. Philippians 2:5-8 reminds us that Jesus, though fully God, humbled Himself to the point of death on a cross. He didn’t fake humility—He lived it, even when it cost Him everything.

Humility isn’t about putting on a show for others. It’s about living a life rooted in our identity as beloved children of God. When we allow humility to flow naturally from our relationship with Him, it becomes a beacon of His love, grace, and power.

Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of people, to be seen by them. Otherwise, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.

Matthew 6:1 HCSB

Real humility doesn’t crave the spotlight. It points others to the One who truly deserves all the glory.

My Prayer:
Lord, help me live with genuine humility. Guard my heart against the temptation to make humility an act. Teach me to serve You with sincerity and to glorify You in all that I do. May my life be a reflection of Your love and grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Keep the faith,
Rainer Bantau—The Devotional Guy™