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Many years ago it was not uncommon for individuals to close letters and correspondence with “very humbly yours,” or “Your humble servant,” or some other such phrasing which emphasized the humility of the writer.
In today’s world, however, such wording is scarcely seen. Humility has become an unpopular virtue with most individuals. We have become a society of publicity seekers and self-servers. Such attitudes were not characteristic of Christ. The Lord “made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant…He humbled Himself… ” (Philippians 2:7,8). The Lord did not call attention to Himself. Isaiah said, “He shall not cry, nor lift up; neither shall any man hear his voice in the street” (Isaiah 42:2).
Christians will pattern their lives after Christ and do the best they can in any given set of circumstances; they then let their deeds and achievements speak for themselves. Though everyone appreciates the praise of others, yet, we should not go around seeking accolades from our peers. Neither do Christians become insecure and disturbed if they are overlooked when commendations are given.
It is a great matter to desire genuine virtues, but, it is just as great to desire to conceal them.
Bill Dillon
from Gospel Gems Vol. 2