Have you ever sensed how difficult it is to stay grounded in today’s world? It seems like everything around us is designed to pull us in multiple directions, urging us to chase after validation, applause, and attention. Social media, in particular, thrives on people putting their “best” moments on display, creating a culture of comparison and performance. But in reality, God isn’t impressed by any of that. He’s actually repulsed by some of it. Because His focus is on something far more profound and transformative in our lives: humility.

“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” – Micah 6:8

In this passage, the prophet presents God’s clear and timeless instructions—do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with Him. Let’s hone in on that last part though. Walking humbly isn’t just about a posture of modesty; it’s about a deep, daily awareness that God is in control, not us. In my own life, it is trusting His plan and recognizing that every good thing in our lives flows from His grace alone. And even in my trials or hardships, God’s purposes remain sovereign, working all things together for my ultimate good. So, if you’re like me, at some point your pride inevitably conflicts with His plan. But as we learn throughout Scripture–a surrendered heart is God’s goal for His children.

Thankfully, Jesus is the ultimate example (and source of empowerment) of humility for us. Despite His divine authority, He didn’t cling to His heavenly status. Instead, He took on the role of a servant, even submitting to death on the Cross (Philippians 2:5-8). And let’s think about that for a minute. The King of kings chose humility for our sake. If He could do that, how can we justify clinging to pride or self-importance in our own lives? We can’t actually. But we might try to because we’re misunderstanding and/or not believing an aspect of the Good News.

Let’s be honest though—cultivating humility isn’t something that comes naturally. It requires self-awareness and continual renewing of the mind through Scripture. For me, I have to regularly reflect on the gospel, reminding myself that I’m in Christ (and I stay in Christ) as a result of radical grace, not by my works or my schemes. I also have to ask God to reveal the areas where pride has taken root in my heart. Sometimes it surfaces in subtle ways like defensiveness, wanting justice on my terms, or craving approval from others.

And so I’ve learned one way I can intentionally nurture humility is through serving others. Relationships and interactions allow me to choose to walk in humility. But I’ve also come to realize true service isn’t about gaining recognition or praise. It’s about asking Jesus to come minister through me, that I might serve with joy and without expectation of being noticed. Walking humbly doesn’t come without its challenges, but it leads to freedom. When we shift our focus off ourselves, we become more attuned to the needs around us and more equipped to glorify God in our relationships.

That’s why, when God tells us to walk this way, we’d best take heed.