How Do You View Yourself?

A Balanced View Of Ourselves

Clearly, we should not take ourselves too seriously. Of course, this is not to say that we should not be serious about what we do or say. The Bible indicates that overseers, ministerial servants-in fact, all in the congregation-should be serious. (1 Timothy 3:4, 8, 11; Titus 2:2) So how can Christians develop and maintain a modest, balanced view and serious, view of themselves?

The Bible provides many encouraging examples of individuals who maintained a balanced view of themselves. Outstanding is Jesus Christ's example of humility. To do his Father's will and to bring salvation to mankind, God's Son willingly left his glorious heavenly position and became a lowly human on earth. Despite insults, abuse, and an ignominious death, he maintained self-control and dignity. (Matthew 20:28; Philippians 2:5-8; 1 Peter 2:23, 24) How was Jesus able to to this? He relied completely on Jehovah and was determined to do the divine will. Jesus studied God's Word diligently, prayed fervently and exerted himself vigorously in the ministry. (Matthew 4:1-10; 26:36-44; Luke 8:1; John 4:34; 8:28; Hebrews 5:7) Following Jesus' example of can help us to develop and maintain a balanced view of ourselves. - 1 Peter 2:2.

Consider also the fine example of King Saul's son Jonathan. Because of his father's disobedience, Jonathan lost the opportunity to succeed Saul as king. ( 1 Samuel 15:10-29) Was Jonathan bitter over his loss? Did he become jealous of David, the young man who was to rule in his place? Although Jonathan was much older and probably more experienced than David, he modestly and humbly complied with Jehovah's arrangement and loyally supported David. (1 Samuel 23:16-18) Having a clear perspective of God's will and willingness to submit to it will help us 'not to think more of ourselves than it is necessary to think.' -Romans 12:3.

Jesus taught the value of displaying modesty and humility. He illustrated this by saying that when his disciples were at a marriage feast, they should not take "the most prominent place" because someone more distinguished might come and they might suffer the humiliation of having to go to the lowest place. Making the lesson quite clear, Jesus added: "For everyone that exalts himself will be humbled and he that humbles himself will be exalted." (Luke 14:7-11) We are wise to heed Jesus' counsel and to 'clothe ourselves with lowliness of mind.' -Colossians 3:12; 1 Corinthians 1:31.

Next time: Blessings Of A Balanced View

Watchtower, 2000