1. What did David say about Jehovah’s humility?

CAN we really say that Jehovah is humble? Yes, we can. David once said: “You give me your shield of salvation, and your humility makes me great.” (2 Sam. 22:36; Ps. 18:35) Perhaps David was thinking of the day when the prophet Samuel came to the house of David’s father to anoint the future king of Israel. David was the youngest of eight boys; yet, he was the one whom Jehovah chose to replace King Saul.​—1 Sam. 16:1, 10-13.

2. What will we consider in this article?

2 David would certainly agree with the sentiments expressed by a psalmist who said of Jehovah: “He stoops down to look on heaven and earth, raising the lowly from the dust. He lifts up the poor . . . to make him sit with nobles.” (Ps. 113:6-8) In this article, we will first consider some important lessons about humility by reviewing instances when Jehovah showed this quality. Then we will examine what we can learn from King Saul, the prophet Daniel, and Jesus about the quality of modesty.

3. How does Jehovah deal with us, and what does this prove?

3 Jehovah proves that he is humble by how he deals with imperfect human worshippers. Not only does he accept our worship but he also views us as his friends. (Ps. 25:14) In order to make friendship with him possible, Jehovah took the initiative by providing his Son as a sacrifice for our sins. What mercy​—what compassion—​he has shown us!

4. What has Jehovah given us, and why?

4 Consider another expression of Jehovah’s humility. As the Creator, Jehovah could have made us without the ability to choose the course of our lives. But he did not do that. He made us in his image and gave us free will. He wants us lowly humans to serve him from our heart because we love him and we recognize the benefits of obeying him. (Deut. 10:12; Isa. 48:17, 18) How grateful we should be for this expression of Jehovah’s humility!

5. How does Jehovah teach us to be humble? (See cover picture.)

5 Jehovah teaches us to be humble by the way he deals with us. Jehovah is the wisest Person in the universe. Even so, he is willing to accept suggestions from others. For example, Jehovah allowed his Son to assist him in creating all things. (Prov. 8:27-30; Col. 1:15, 16) And even though Jehovah is almighty, he delegates authority to others. For instance, he appointed Jesus to be King of the Kingdom, and He will give a measure of authority to the 144,000 humans who become corulers with Jesus. (Luke 12:32) Of course, Jehovah trained Jesus to be King and High Priest. (Heb. 5:8, 9) He also trains Jesus’ corulers, but he does not give them this assignment and then step in to manage every detail of the work. Instead, he trusts that they will do his will.​—Rev. 5:10.

6-7. What can we learn from our heavenly Father about delegating authority to others?

6 If our heavenly Father​—who does not need help from anyone—​delegates authority to others, how much more so should we do the same! For instance, are you a family head or an elder in the congregation? Follow Jehovah’s example by delegating tasks to others and then resisting the urge to micromanage them. When you imitate Jehovah, not only will you get the work done but you will also train others and boost their confidence. (Isa. 41:10) What else can those with a measure of authority learn from Jehovah?

7 The Bible indicates that Jehovah is interested in the opinions of his angelic sons. (1 Ki. 22:19-22) Parents, how can you imitate Jehovah’s example? When appropriate, ask your children for their opinions on how a task should be done. And when fitting, follow their suggestions.

8. How did Jehovah deal patiently with Abraham and Sarah?

8 Jehovah’s humility is also expressed by his patience. For example, Jehovah is patient when those who serve him question his decisions respectfully. He listened as Abraham stated his concerns about the decision to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah. (Gen. 18:22-33) And remember how Jehovah dealt with Abraham’s wife, Sarah. He did not become offended or angry when she laughed at his promise that she would become pregnant in her old age. (Gen. 18:10-14) Instead, he treated Sarah with dignity.

9. What can parents and elders learn from Jehovah’s example?

9 Parents and elders, what can you learn from Jehovah’s example? Consider how you respond when those under your authority question your decisions. Is your initial reaction to correct them? Or do you try to understand their point of view? Families and congregations surely benefit when those in authority imitate Jehovah. So far, we have discussed what we can learn about humility from Jehovah’s example. Now let us see what we can learn about modesty from examples recorded in God’s Word.

10. How does Jehovah use the example of others to teach us?

10 As our “Grand Instructor,” Jehovah provides examples in his Word in order to teach us. (Isa. 30:20, 21) We learn as we meditate on Bible accounts about those who showed godly qualities, including modesty. We also learn as we examine what happened to those who failed to show such fine qualities.​—Ps. 37:37; 1 Cor. 10:11.

11. What can we learn from Saul’s bad example?

11 Reflect on what happened to King Saul. He started out as a modest young man. He was aware of his limitations and even hesitated to take on more responsibility. (1 Sam. 9:21; 10:20-22) Yet, in time Saul became presumptuous. He revealed this bad trait soon after he became king. On one occasion, he lost patience while waiting for the prophet Samuel. Instead of modestly trusting in Jehovah to act in behalf of the people, Saul offered up a burnt sacrifice even though he was not authorized to do so. As a result, Saul lost Jehovah’s favor and eventually the kingship. (1 Sam. 13:8-14) We are wise if we learn from this warning example and avoid acting presumptuously.

12. How did Daniel show modesty?

12 In contrast with Saul’s bad example, consider the good example of the prophet Daniel. Throughout his life, Daniel remained a humble and modest servant of God who always looked to Jehovah for guidance. For instance, when he was used by Jehovah to interpret Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, Daniel did not take credit for the interpretation. Rather, he modestly gave all the glory and credit to Jehovah. (Dan. 2:26-28) What is the lesson for us? If brothers enjoy listening to our talks or if we have a measure of success in the ministry, we want to remember to give all the glory to Jehovah. We should modestly acknowledge that we could not do these things without Jehovah’s help. (Phil. 4:13) When we have this attitude, we are also imitating Jesus’ fine example. How so?

13. What do we learn about modesty from Jesus’ words found at John 5:19, 30?

13 Although he was the perfect Son of God, Jesus depended on Jehovah. (Read John 5:19, 30.) He never tried to grab authority from his heavenly Father. Philippians 2:6 tells us that Jesus “gave no consideration to a seizure, namely, that he should be equal to God.” As a submissive Son, Jesus understood his limitations and respected his Father’s authority.

14. When asked to do something that was beyond his authority, how did Jesus respond?

14 Consider how Jesus responded when the disciples James and John along with their mother approached him and asked for a privilege that was beyond Jesus’ authority to give. Without hesitating, Jesus stated that only his heavenly Father could decide who would sit at Jesus’ right hand and at his left in the Kingdom. (Matt. 20:20-23) Jesus showed that he respected his limitations. He was modest. He never went beyond what Jehovah commanded him to do. (John 12:49) How can we imitate Jesus’ fine example?

15-16. How can we apply the Bible’s counsel found at 1 Corinthians 4:6?

15 We imitate Jesus’ example of modesty by applying the Bible’s counsel found at 1 Corinthians 4:6. There we are told: “Do not go beyond the things that are written.” So when asked for advice, we never want to promote our own opinion or simply say the first thing that comes to our mind. Rather, we should direct attention to the counsel found in the Bible and in our Bible-based publications. In this way, we acknowledge our limitations. With modesty, we give credit to the “righteous decrees” of the Almighty.​—Rev. 15:3, 4.

16 Along with honoring Jehovah, we have other good reasons for displaying modesty. We will now look at how humility and modesty can bring us joy and help us get along with others.

17. Why are humble and modest people joyful?

17 When we are humble and modest, we are more likely to be joyful. Why so? When we are aware of our limitations, we will be grateful and happy for any help that we receive from others. For example, think of the occasion when Jesus healed ten lepers. Only one of them returned to thank Jesus for curing him of his dreadful disease​—something the man could never have done on his own. This humble and modest man was thankful for the help he received, and he glorified God for it.​—Luke 17:11-19.

18. How do humility and modesty help us to get along with others? (Romans 12:10)

18 Humble, modest people tend to get along well with others and are more likely to have close friends. Why? They willingly acknowledge that other people have fine qualities and show confidence in them. Humble and modest ones are happy when others succeed in whatever assignment they receive and are quick to commend them and honor them.​—Read Romans 12:10.

19. What are some reasons why we should avoid pride?

19 In contrast, proud people find it difficult to commend others, preferring that they themselves receive praise. They are more likely to compare themselves with others and to promote a spirit of competition. Rather than training others and giving them authority, they are likely to say, “If you want something done right”​—the way that pleases them—​“you have to do it yourself.” A proud person is often ambitious and jealous. (Gal. 5:26) Such people seldom have lasting friendships. If we detect that we have a problem with pride, we should earnestly pray for Jehovah’s help to ‘make our mind over’ so that this bad trait does not become deeply rooted within us.​—Rom. 12:2.

20. Why should we be humble and modest?

20 How thankful we are for Jehovah’s example! We see his humility in how he deals with his servants, and we want to imitate him. In addition, we want to imitate the fine examples found in the Bible of modest people who had the privilege of walking with God. May we always give Jehovah the honor and the glory that he deserves. (Rev. 4:11) Then we too will qualify to walk with our heavenly Father, who loves humble and modest people.

1. What sacrifices have many made, and why did they make them?

Many have decided to remain single. Some marriages have chosen not to have children for now. And many families lead a simple life, and have made these sacrifices because they trust that the Lord will give them everything they really need, and he will not let them down.​—Rom. 4:11.

2. (a) According to Hebrews 11:8-10, 16, why was Abraham willing to leave Ur? (b) What will we discuss in this article?

2 (a)  Because I expected \”the city that has true foundations.\”

(b) What is that “city”? What challenges did Abraham face while he waited for that city to be built? And how can we be like Abraham and those in our day who have followed his example? In this article we will see the answers. (Read Hebrews 11:8-10, 16.) 

3. What is the city that Abraham awaited?

3 The city Abraham expected is the Kingdom of God, which is made up of Jesus Christ and the 144,000 anointed Christians. (Heb. 12:22; Rev. 5:8-10; 14:1) ​—Matt. 6:10.

4. According to Genesis 17:1, 2, 6, how much did Abraham know about the city, or Kingdom, that God promised?

4 Abraham did not know exactly how the Kingdom of God would be organized. For centuries, that was a \”sacred secret.\” But he did know that some of his descendants would become kings, for the Lord had promised him (read Genesis 17:1, 2, 6). He had so much faith in divine promises that it was as if he could see the Anointed or Messiah that he would be King of the Kingdom of God. (Eph. 1:8-10; Col. 1:26, 27; Read Genesis 17:1, 2, 6. John 8:56) 

5. How do we know that Abraham was waiting for the city designed by God?

5 First, he became no citizen of any terrestrial kingdom. He decided not to settle anywhere or support a human king. Besides, he didn\’t try to create his own kingdom. Rather, he always obeyed the Lord and waited for him to keep his promise.

Illustration

In the illustration we see how Abraham showed faith in the Lord\’s promises by fully fulfilling the promptings the Lord had given him even though it was not the most comfortable thing for him or his family. Abraham came from a thriving city which was close to the current confluence of the Uphrates and Tigris rivers. Changing the comforts he had for what we see in the illustration was certainly not easy but he was willing to carry those sacrifices because his faith allowed him to see beyond what was before his eyes, and he did so how we see with a very good attitude, not how obligated but willingly.

6. What kind of city was Ur?

6 The City of Ur was relatively safe, modern, and comfortable. It had a huge wall and a moat that protected it on three sides.

7. Why did Abraham have to trust that Jehovah would protect him and his family?

7 Because he and his wife, Sarah, left the safety and comfort of their home in Ur to live in tents out in the open in Canaan, no longer having the protection of a wall and deep moats. Now they were defenseless against the attack of their enemies, that is why Abraham and his wife had to trust that Jehovah would take care of them.

8. At one time, what did Abraham have to deal with?

8 He had to face a terrible famine that struck the land where Jehovah had sent him. The situation was so difficult that he decided to take his family to Egypt for a time. But, when he was in Egypt, the ruler of the country, Pharaoh, took Sarah from him.​—Gen. 12:10-19.

9. What family difficulties did Abraham have to cope with?

9 Some of the situations that Abraham faced is that his beloved wife, Sarah, was sterile. They lived with that bitter grief for many years. In time, she gave Abraham his servant Hagar as his wife. Thus Sarah and Abraham could have children through Hagar. But, when she became pregnant with Ismael, she began to despise Sara, which triggered a very difficult family situation, as Sara made Hagar flee her home.—Gen. 16:1-6.

10. What incidents involving Ishmael and Isaac tested Abraham’s trust in Jehovah?

10 Since Ishmael did not treat Isaac well, Abraham had to fire Ishmael and Hagar. Years later, Jehovah asked Abraham to sacrifice Isaac, for both times Abraham had to trust that Jehovah would fulfill what he had promised about his sons. (Gen. 21:9-14; Gen. 22:1, 2; Heb. 11:17-19) 

11. Why did Abraham have to wait patiently on Jehovah?

11 It is probable that when he and his family left Ur he was in his 70s. And for about a hundred years he lived in tents and traveled through the land of Canaan. He died at 175 years of age. However, he did not see how Jehovah fulfilled his promise to give his descendants the land through which he traveled. Nor did he see the city he hoped for, the Kingdom of God, established. Still, the Bible says that he died \”satisfied after a long life.\” Although he suffered many problems, he maintained strong faith and was willing to wait for Jehovah to act. (Gen. 11:31–12:4; Gen. 25:7; Gen. 25:8) —Gen. 15:1; Isa. 41:8; Jas. 2:22, 23. (See paragraph 12)*

12. What are we waiting for, and what will we consider?

12 (a)  We expect the city that has real foundations. Of course, we do not wait for it to be built, because the Kingdom of God was established in 1914 and it already has absolute control in heaven (Rev. 12: 7-10). But we are waiting for him to start ruling the entire Earth.

(b)  We are going to analyze how have modern-day servants of Jehovah been able to follow the example of Abraham? Biographies of many brothers who have shown faith and patience like Abraham and his wife have appeared in The Watchtower. We will review some of those stories and see what we can learn from these biblical characters.

ILLUSTRATION

We can observe how a couple of older brothers who have remained faithful to Jehovah throughout their lives despite the fact that many years have passed and have not yet seen Jehovah\’s promises fulfilled, continue to wait patiently for their fulfillment and do so while remaining busy with spiritual matters and nurturing their faith by studying the Bible and attending meetings. (Rev. 12:7-10) But we are waiting for it to take complete control of the earth. While we wait for that to happen, there are many situations that we must deal with that are similar to those that Abraham and Sarah faced. Have Jehovah’s modern-day servants been able to imitate Abraham’s example? The life stories published in The Watchtower show that, like Abraham and Sarah, many today have had faith and patience. Let us consider just a few of those stories and see what we can learn.

13. What do you learn from the experience of Brother Walden?

13 Be willing to make sacrifices. What we learn is that if we want to put the city of God, that is, the Kingdom, first in our lives, we must be like Abraham and be willing to sacrifice ourselves to please God. (Matt. 6:33; Mark 10:28-30) Note the example of a brother named Bill Walden.* In 1942, Bill was about to graduate from a U.S. university with a degree in architectural engineering when he started studying with Jehovah’s Witnesses. Bill’s professor had arranged for Bill to have a job after graduation, but Bill declined. He explained that he had decided to give up the promise of a secular career in order to serve God more fully. Shortly afterward, Bill was drafted for military service. He respectfully refused and as a result was fined $10,000 and sentenced to five years in prison. He was released after three years. Later, he was invited to attend Gilead School and served as a missionary in Africa. Then Bill married Eva, and they served together in Africa, which called for sacrifices. Eventually they returned to the United States to care for Bill’s mother. Summarizing his life story, Bill says: “Tears come to my eyes when I think of the awesome privilege of having been used by Jehovah for more than 70 years in his service. I often thank him for guiding me toward making his service my career.” Are you able to make the full-time ministry your career?

14-15. What do you learn from the experience of Brother and Sister Apostolidis?

14 Do not expect your life to be trouble-free. The Servants of Jehovah do not expect a life without problems, that is why the example of Abraham and the Brothers teaches us that even those who dedicate their lives to Jehovah will have difficulties.

Furthermore, we have no doubt that Jehovah deeply loves those who go out of their way to serve him despite problems. (Jas. 1:2; 1 Pet. 5:9) Consider how this proved true in the experience of Aristotelis Apostolidis.* He got baptized in 1946 in Greece, and in 1952 he got engaged to a sister named Eleni, who had the same goals as he did. However, Eleni fell ill and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. The tumor was removed, but just a few years after the couple got married, the tumor came back. The doctors operated again, but Eleni was left partially paralyzed, and her speech was impaired. She remained a zealous minister despite her illness and despite the government persecution at the time.

15 For 30 years, Aristotelis cared for his wife. During this time he served as an elder, worked on assembly committees, and helped to build an Assembly Hall. Then, in 1987, Eleni was hurt in an accident while she was preaching. She was in a coma for three years, and then she died. Aristotelis sums up his experience by saying: “Over the years, trying circumstances, difficult challenges, and unforeseen occurrences have called for an inordinate amount of tenacity and perseverance. Yet, Jehovah has always given me the needed strength to overcome these problems.” (Ps. 94:18, 19) How Jehovah loves those who do all they can for him despite dealing with trials!

16. What good advice did Brother Knorr give his wife?

16 Focus on the future. She says that a few words that Brother Knorr said a few weeks before his death were very helpful. He told her: \”After we die, our hope is assured, and we will never have to suffer pain again.\” Then, he gave her this advice: \”Look ahead, to the future, because that\’s where your reward is.\” She added: “Stay busy, try to use your life doing something for others. That will fill you up ”.—Rom. 12:12.

17. (a) Why do we have good reason to focus on the future? (b) How will following the example recorded at Micah 7:7 help us to enjoy future blessings?

17 (a)  Because world events make it clear that we are in the final part of the last days of this system. Soon, we will no longer have to wait for the city that has true foundations to start ruling the entire Earth.

(b)  Keeping faith despite problems and patiently waiting for Jehovah to act will help us to see more clearly the future promises that Jehovah offers us, for example, seeing our loved ones live again and also seeing how Jehovah will reward Abraham for his faith and patience by bringing him and his family back to life here on earth.—Read Micah 7:7.