“These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion, false humility, and neglect of the body, but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh.”
“false humility”
Legalism parades as a form of humility, but it is only a show. True wisdom keeps us close to the grace of God. Self-imposed rule is the phony humility of self-effacement. If people stand erect or speak with confidence, religious types resent it because they are intimidated by their confidence. On the other hand, if we ingratiate ourselves to others and make people think we are helpless, they will fall over themselves trying to help us. This kind of vulnerability is ingratiation based on self-effacement.
Principle:
Pseudo humility is a pride that apes genuine humility.
Application:
Some people love others because it makes them feel good; it compensates for their many guilt feelings. If we have a sad spirit and can hardly stand erect, if we appear weak and pitiful, people will come along and say, “Don’t worry about it. We will help you.” This pseudo-spirituality appeals to false humility. If we ever want anything from anyone, all we have to do is act helpless, and we will get it.
A Christian operating on true spirituality does not concoct pseudo humility. He directs his humility toward God, who provides him divine assets for Christian living.
