Devotion #2: Humility Brings Harmony

“For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.” Romans 12:3 

“Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.” Romans 12:16 

Apparently, the Apostle Paul had some concerns for the Christians in Rome. Conflict between different classes of people, snooty attitudes, and a dangerous combination of arrogance and ignorance concerning talents all seemed to be coalescing to create major issues in the church. Harmony was not happening. Everyone seemed to be on their own page and doing their own thing. 

In an orchestra, a conductor needs each musician to properly see themselves, their instruments, and their particular part to be able to make beautiful music. The same is true in a choir. Each singer must understand their assignment and accept their vocal abilities and limits. If one singer or group of singers fails to do either of these, the choir’s overall ability is stifled. Harmony is impossible as an individual voice. However, with others who know their part and sing their part, beautiful music can be created. When we recognize our spot in the orchestra, in the choir, on the team, or in the church, harmony happens. There are always going to be people less gifted, more gifted, and differently gifted by God. 

Humility is seeing both our gifts and our limitations clearly. Sometimes we mistakenly identify humility as simply seeing our weaknesses and inabilities. This often leads to immense insecurity, which is just another form of pride. We remain self-focused and self-reliant, and what perpetuates that cycle is self-doubt. 

Twice in verse 3, Paul points out that God has given and “God has assigned.” Each of our abilities and talents comes from God. We may work to refine those abilities, but the fundamental capacity to learn and grasp a skill is a gift from God. The key is knowing it is a gift. 

Human harmony is achieved when we abide by the ancient proverb “know thyself.” We each see what we are good at, what we are bad it, accept it, and harmonize. I am bad at this and you are good at that. We complement each other and make a great team. True humility is seeing how greatly God has gifted each of us. 

This is Christ’s vision for His church - know your gifts and then use your gifts to harmonize with people across the socio-economic scale to the glory of God and furtherance of His Gospel.