50 Bible Verses About Humility

Introduction to Bible Verses About Humility

The theme of humility is woven intricately into the rich tapestry of the Bible, serving as a guiding light for our spiritual journey. As we explore these 50 bible verses about humility, we uncover a recurring call to embrace a life marked not by self-promotion, but by modesty, deference, and a deep acknowledgement of our need for God. The teachings of the Bible assert that humility is not a sign of weakness, but rather a strength that stems from a place of self-awareness, understanding, and love. 

Philippians 2:3-4 beautifully encapsulates this idea, urging us, “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” This verse challenges us to step out of the confines of our self-centeredness and extend our care and consideration to those around us. Proverbs 22:4 provides another profound insight into the virtue of humility: “The reward for humility and fear of the LORD is riches and honor and life.” It reinforces that humility in our spiritual walk, coupled with reverence for God, leads not just to material blessings, but more importantly to a fulfilling and honorable life. 

As we navigate through these bible verses about humility, we are offered an in-depth look into five critical aspects of humility: Humility in Service, Humility in Obedience to God, Humility in Response to Correction and Rebuke, Humility in Prayer, and Humility in Relationships. Each of these categories sheds light on the transformative power of humility and its profound impact on different areas of our lives. 

The call to serve others, for instance, is one of the profound ways in which the Bible emphasizes humility. We are reminded time and again that true greatness in the Kingdom of God is not about being the highest or the greatest, but about being the servant of all. Humility in obedience to God is another major theme in the Bible that paints a picture of complete surrender and trust in God’s will above our own. 

Moreover, these verses call for humility in receiving correction and rebuke, highlighting the importance of learning from our mistakes and growing through them. In prayer, we are encouraged to approach God with a humble heart, recognizing our own shortcomings and expressing our total dependence on His grace. And lastly, the Bible teaches us about the role of humility in our relationships, urging us to value others above ourselves and foster love, peace, and unity. 

As we delve into these bible verses about humility, let’s open our hearts and minds to these profound truths. May they not only enrich our understanding, but also guide us in our daily lives as we strive to walk humbly with our God, serving and loving others just as Christ did. 

Humility in Service

Service is a pivotal aspect of Christian living, deeply intertwined with the concept of humility. When we serve others, we emulate the humility of Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve. This is vividly portrayed in verses like Matthew 23:11-12, where Jesus declares that true greatness is found in servitude. The bible verses about humility in this category challenge us to put aside our own desires and ambitions, to serve others selflessly. Serving others is not just an act of kindness, but a powerful testament to our faith and humility. It transcends mere action, touching the depths of our character, shaping us to be more Christ-like in our daily walk. 

Matthew 23:11-12

The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. NIV

In Other Words: He who is greatest will serve. Those who puff themselves up will be brought low, and those who lower themselves will be raised high. 

One-Line Summary: True greatness is about serving others, not self-promotion. 

John 13:14-15

Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.

In Other Words: As I, your Master and Teacher, washed your feet, you should also wash each other’s feet. I’ve provided an example that you should follow. 

One-Line Summary: Jesus sets an example of service, which His followers are to emulate. 

Galatians 5:13

You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.

In Other Words: You’re called to liberty, brothers and sisters. Don’t exploit it to indulge your carnal desires; instead, humbly serve one another in love. 

One-Line Summary: True freedom is about serving others in love, not indulging in selfish desires. 

Philippians 2:3-4

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

In Other Words: Avoid self-centered ambition or vanity. Rather, in humility consider others as more important than you, not only seeking your interests but also those of others. 

One-Line Summary: Christians should humbly consider others above themselves. 

Mark 9:35

Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.” 

In Other Words: Jesus sat and told the Twelve, ‘If you aspire to be first, you must be last and the servant of everyone. 

One-Line Summary: Greatness in the kingdom of God is marked by serving others. 

Ephesians 4:2

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 

In Other Words: Act with absolute humility and gentleness; patiently tolerate each other in love. 

One-Line Summary: Love is expressed through humble, patient, and gentle service. 

Romans 12:16

Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. 

In Other Words: Live in unity. Don’t be proud, but be willing to mix with people of any status. Don’t be arrogant. 

One-Line Summary: Humility leads to unity and acceptance of all people. 

1 Peter 4:10

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 

In Other Words: Use whatever gifts you have received to serve others, demonstrating faithful stewardship of God’s varied grace. 

One-Line Summary: Use your God-given gifts to serve others.

1 Peter 5:5

In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble. 

In Other Words: Young ones, yield to your elders. Everyone, display humility towards each other, because, ‘God resists the proud, but offers grace to the humble. 

One-Line Summary: Humility in our relationships with others is pleasing to God.

1 Corinthians 10:24

No one should seek their own good, but the good of others. 

In Other Words: One should not pursue their own advantage, but that of their neighbor. 

One-Line Summary: Seek the good of others before your own. 

Humility in Obedience to God

The bible verses about humility in relation to obedience to God bring to light the profound relationship between our humility and our willingness to follow God’s commands. True humility involves acknowledging our own limitations and surrendering to God’s sovereign will. Verses like James 4:10 remind us that in humbling ourselves before God, we find true exaltation. This selection delves into the essence of biblical humility as a submissive and obedient heart towards God. It encourages believers to trust in God’s plans and timing, understanding that our human perspective is limited and that true wisdom and guidance lie in divine submission. 

2 Chronicles 7:14

If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. NIV

In Other Words: If my people, who are identified by my name, humble themselves, pray, seek my presence, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will listen from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land. 

One-Line Summary: Humility, prayer, and repentance lead to God’s forgiveness and healing.

Psalm 25:9

He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way. 

In Other Words: He guides the humble to justice and teaches them his path. 

One-Line Summary: God guides the humble in what is right. 

Micah 6:8

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. 

In Other Words: Mankind, He has informed you what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God. 

One-Line Summary: God desires that we act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him. 

Psalm 147:6

The LORD sustains the humble but casts the wicked to the ground. 

In Other Words: The LORD upholds the humble but pushes the wicked into the dirt. 

One-Line Summary: God favors the humble and brings down the wicked. 

Proverbs 22:4

Humility is the fear of the LORD; its wages are riches and honor and life. 

In Other Words: The fear of the LORD involves humility, and its reward is wealth, honor, and life. 

One-Line Summary: Humility and reverence for the Lord bring wealth, honor, and life. 

Proverbs 3:34

He mocks proud mockers but shows favor to the humble and oppressed. 

In Other Words: He scoffs at the mockers yet gives grace to the humble and oppressed. 

One-Line Summary: God gives grace to the humble but scorns the proud. 

Isaiah 57:15

For this is what the high and exalted One says—he who lives forever, whose name is holy: ‘I live in a high and holy place, but also with the one who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite.’ 

In Other Words: Thus says the exalted and eternal One who lives in a holy place but also with the contrite and humble in spirit: ‘I will revive the spirit of the humble and revive the heart of the contrite. 

One-Line Summary: God revives the spirit of the humble. 

Job 22:29

When people are brought low and you say, ‘Lift them up!’ then he will save the downcast. 

In Other Words: When men are cast down, and you say, ‘Exalt them!’ then He will save the downcast. 

One-Line Summary: God exalts those who are lowly. 

Psalm 149:4

For the LORD takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with victory. 

In Other Words: For the LORD delights in his people; he gives victory to the humble. 

One-Line Summary: God delights in His people and crowns the humble with victory. 

James 4:10

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. 

In Other Words: Lower yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he will elevate you. 

One-Line Summary: Humbling oneself before God results in divine exaltation. 

Humility in Response to Correction and Rebuke

Responding to correction and rebuke with humility is a critical aspect of spiritual growth. The bible verses about humility in this section underscore the importance of being teachable and open to guidance. Proverbs 15:32 and similar verses highlight that wisdom and understanding are the fruits of a humble response to correction. This theme is crucial for personal development and spiritual maturity, as it involves acknowledging our faults, learning from them, and making necessary changes. Embracing correction with humility is not a sign of weakness, but rather an indication of strength and a willingness to grow and improve. 

Proverbs 12:1

Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid. 

In Other Words: Whoever cherishes discipline cherishes knowledge, but he who hates reproof is senseless. 

One-Line Summary: Loving correction shows a desire for knowledge. 

Proverbs 10:17

Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray. 

In Other Words: He who respects instruction is on the path to life, but he who ignores reproof leads others astray. 

One-Line Summary: Accepting correction shows wisdom and leads others to truth. 

Proverbs 15:31

Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise. 

In Other Words: Whoever accepts life-giving correction will dwell among the wise. 

One-Line Summary: Listening to life-giving rebuke leads to wisdom. 

Proverbs 29:23

Pride brings a person low, but the lowly in spirit gain honor. 

 In Other Words: Arrogance brings a person down, but the humble in spirit gain honor. 

One-Line Summary: Humility leads to honor, while pride leads to destruction.

Proverbs 13:18

Whoever disregards discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored. 

In Other Words: Poverty and disgrace come to him who disregards discipline, but whoever heeds correction will be honored. 

One-Line Summary: Heeding correction brings honor. 

Psalm 141:5

Let a righteous man strike me—that is a kindness; let him rebuke me—that is oil on my head. My head will not refuse it, for my prayer will still be against the deeds of evildoers. 

In Other Words: May a righteous man strike me—it is a favor; let him rebuke me—it is like oil on my head, which my head will not refuse, for my prayer will still be against the deeds of evildoers. 

One-Line Summary: Accepting rebuke from a righteous person is beneficial. 

Proverbs 27:6

Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses. 

In Other Words: Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but deceitful are the kisses of an enemy. 

One-Line Summary: Honest criticism from a friend is more beneficial than empty praises. 

Proverbs 28:13

Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy. 

In Other Words: Whoever conceals their transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will receive mercy. 

One-Line Summary: Confessing and renouncing sin leads to mercy.

James 1:21

Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. 

In Other Words: Therefore, remove all moral filth and wickedness and humbly receive the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. 

One-Line Summary: Humbly accepting God’s word allows it to save us. 

Proverbs 15:32

Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding.

In Other Word: Those who neglect discipline despise themselves, but the one who pays attention to correction gains insight. 

One-Line Summary: Those who accept correction gain understanding.

Humility in Prayer

Prayer is an intimate and vital part of a believer’s life, and approaching God with a humble heart is essential. The bible verses about humility in this listing emphasize the importance of humility in our communication with God. In prayer, we recognize our dependence on God, confess our sins, and seek His guidance and mercy. Verses like 2 Chronicles 7:14 demonstrate that humility in prayer is about recognizing our position before God and approaching Him with a contrite spirit. This section invites us to explore the depth of a humble prayer life, emphasizing that through humble prayer, we align ourselves more closely with God’s will and purpose for our lives. 

Daniel 10:12

Then he continued, ‘Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them.’ 

In Other Words: Then he said, ‘Do not fear, Daniel. For from the first day that you set your heart to understand, and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard; and I have come because of your words. 

One-Line Summary: Humility and desire for understanding lead to answered prayer. 

Luke 18:13-14

But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’ I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. 

In Other Words:  But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted. 

One-Line Summary: Humble confession leads to justification before God. 

Psalm 35:13

Yet when they were ill, I put on sackcloth and humbled myself with fasting. When my prayers returned to me unanswered. 

In Other Words: But when they were sick, I wore sackcloth; I afflicted myself with fasting; I prayed with head bowed on my chest. 

One-Line Summary: Fasting and prayer are expressions of humility before God. 

Ezra 8:21

There, by the Ahava Canal, I proclaimed a fast, so that we might humble ourselves before our God and ask him for a safe journey for us and our children, with all our possessions. 

In Other Words: Then I proclaimed a fast there, at the river Ahava, that we might humble ourselves before our God, to seek from him a safe journey for ourselves, our children, and all our goods. 

One-Line Summary: Humility expressed through fasting leads to safe journeys. 

1 Kings 21:29

Have you noticed how Ahab has humbled himself before me? Because he has humbled himself, I will not bring this disaster in his day, but I will bring it on his house in the days of his son.’

In Other Words: See how Ahab has humbled himself before me? Because he has humbled himself before me, I will not bring the evil in his days; but in his son’s days I will bring the evil upon his house. 

One-Line Summary: Humility before God delays judgment. 

2 Kings 22:19

Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before the LORD when you heard what I have spoken against this place and its people—that they would become a curse and be laid waste—and because you tore your robes and wept in my presence, I also have heard you, declares the LORD. 

In Other Words: Because your heart was penitent, and you humbled yourself before the LORD, when you heard how I spoke against this place and against its inhabitants, that they should become a desolation and a curse, and you have torn your clothes and wept before me, I also have heard you, declares the LORD. 

One-Line Summary: God hears and responds to the cries of the humble. 

Matthew 6:6

But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 

In Other Words: But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. 

One-Line Summary: Private, humble prayer is rewarded by God.

James 5:16

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. 

In Other Words: Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working. 

One-Line Summary: Confessing sins to each other and praying leads to healing.

1 John 1:9

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 

In Other Words: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 

One-Line Summary: Confessing our sins leads to forgiveness and purification.

2 Chronicles 34:27

Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before God when you heard what he spoke against this place and its people, and because you humbled yourself before me and tore your robes and wept in my presence, I have heard you, declares the LORD. 

In Other Words: Your heart was tender and you humbled yourself before God when you heard his words against this place and its inhabitants, and humbled yourself before me, and tore your robes and wept before me, I have heard you, declares the LORD. 

One-Line Summary: Humility and repentance make one receptive to God’s word. 

Humility in Relationships

Lastly, humility within the context of our relationships is a vital expression of our Christian faith. The bible verses about humility in this section explore how humility impacts the way we interact with others. In relationships, humility allows us to value others, to listen, understand, and empathize. Verses like Philippians 2:3 instruct us to consider others above ourselves, an attitude that fosters peace, unity, and love. This category emphasizes the transformative power of humility in building healthy, loving, and Christ-centered relationships. It challenges us to live out our faith in practical ways, showing the love of Christ in our interactions with others. 

Ephesians 5:21

Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. 

In Other Words: Submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ. 

One-Line Summary: Mutual submission out of reverence for Christ is a sign of humility. 

Philippians 2:3

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves. 

In Other Words: Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 

One-Line Summary: Value others above yourself, in humility. 

Colossians 3:12

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 

In Other Words: Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. 

One-Line Summary: Believers are to embody humility and kindness towards others. 

1 Peter 3:8

Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.

In Other Words: Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. 

One-Line Summary: Christians are called to humility, compassion, and love towards one another. 

Romans 14:19

Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. 

In Other Words: So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding. 

One-Line Summary: Pursuing peace and mutual upbuilding reflects humility. 

James 3:13

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 

In Other Words: Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. 

One-Line Summary: Wisdom is demonstrated through humble good deeds. 

Proverbs 15:33

Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the LORD, and humility comes before honor. 

In Other Words: The fear of the LORD is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honor. 

One-Line Summary: Reverence for the Lord and humility lead to honor. 

Proverbs 18:12

Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor. 

In Other Words: Before destruction a man’s heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor. 

One-Line Summary: Before honor comes humility.

Proverbs 11:2

When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. 

In Other Words: When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom. 

One-Line Summary: Wisdom is associated with humility, while pride leads to disgrace. 

Romans 12:10

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 

In Other Words: Love each other with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. 

One-Line Summary: Christians should honor one another above themselves. 

Conclusion

As we conclude our exploration of these 50 bible verses about humility, we are reminded of the profound truth that humility is not just a virtue, but a way of life that reflects our relationship with God and with others. Through these passages, we see that humility is a conscious choice to lower ourselves, to accept God’s will over our own desires, and to serve others before serving ourselves. 

In the book of Micah 6:8, we find a clear instruction: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” This verse echoes throughout these bible verses about humility, underscoring the necessity of humility in our walk with God. 

Furthermore, the words in James 4:10 encourage us: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” This verse reassures us that when we display humility before God, He will exalt us in due time. It serves as a profound reminder of the promise God has made to those who choose the path of humility. 

In navigating through these bible verses about humility, we have explored how humility impacts our service to others, our obedience to God, our acceptance of correction, our approach to prayer, and our relationships. Our understanding of these scriptures allows us to appreciate that the Bible’s teachings on humility are not just rules to live by; they offer a transformative approach to life that brings us closer to God and to each other. 

Therefore, as we reflect on these bible verses about humility, let’s strive to incorporate humility into our daily lives, understanding that it is not just about thinking less of ourselves, but about thinking of ourselves less. In doing so, we align ourselves more closely with the example of Christ, who, though He was God, humbled Himself to become a servant for all (Philippians 2:6-7). In humble service, obedience, acceptance of correction, prayer, and in our relationships, may we echo His humility in our own lives. 

6 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Humility Bible Verses

A Prayer Inspired by Humility Bible Verses

In the midst of our daily lives, it becomes essential to pause and reflect on the virtue of humility, a quality so deeply rooted in the teachings of the Bible. The scriptures, ranging from the humble service exemplified by Christ to the wisdom of humbly accepting correction, guide us in understanding the true essence of humility. This prayer is crafted with the intention of embracing humility in our hearts, as taught in the sacred verses of the Bible. It is an invocation for the grace to live a life marked by humility, service, and a deep reverence for God’s guidance.

Our Prayer Inspired by Our Selection of Bible Verses About Humility

Heavenly Father,

In the quiet of this moment, I come before You with a heart seeking humility. Your Word, from Matthew 23:11-12 to Philippians 2:3-4, reminds me of the grace found in serving others and putting their needs before my own. Lord, instill in me the spirit of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who walked the earth with the utmost humility and compassion.

I acknowledge, O God, that true greatness in Your kingdom is measured not by status or accolades, but by the willingness to serve and uplift others. Help me to embody this truth in every action, every word, and every thought. In the example of Christ who washed the feet of His disciples, let me find the courage to serve others with a humble heart.

Grant me, O Lord, the wisdom to accept Your guidance and correction with a humble spirit, as taught in Proverbs 15:32. May I learn from my mistakes and grow stronger in character and faith. In moments of success and achievement, remind me, as in Proverbs 22:4, that humility and reverence for You lead to true riches, honor, and life.

As I come to You in prayer, like the humble tax collector in Luke 18:13-14, I ask for Your mercy and forgiveness. Teach me to approach You with the same humility, recognizing my need for Your grace and love. Guide my words and actions, so they may reflect Your humility and bring glory to Your name.

In my relationships, Lord, let humility guide my interactions. Help me to love and honor others as You have loved and honored me. Teach me to listen, to understand, and to empathize, just as You do with each of us. May my life be a testament to the humility You value, as I strive to live in harmony and peace with those around me.

In all things, Heavenly Father, I seek to humble myself under Your mighty hand, trusting that in Your perfect timing, You will exalt me (1 Peter 5:6). Let my life be an example of the beauty and strength found in humility, as I walk in the footsteps of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior.

In His holy name, I pray,

Amen.