Self-promotion is everywhere: Facebook ads, TV commercials, and your co-worker with new ideas—when the boss is in town. But do you notice your temptation to get all the credit and be recognized? Let’s look at Proverbs 25:6-7 on the danger of self-promotion and the good of humility so we can know what a humble dad looks like. #1 The danger of self-promotion. Do not put yourself forward in the king’s presence or stand in the place of the great… (Prov. 25:6). Who wants to be publicly embarrassed/humiliated? Protip: Don’t show up where you aren’t invited. Never overstate your importance and you won’t have to be put in your place. Self-reliance never works, even if it appears to work in the short run. #2 The good of humility. …it is better to be told, “Come up here,” than to be put lower in the presence of a noble… (Prov. 25:7). When you’re humble before God/others, you might get invited to a higher place. Protip #2: Don’t fake humility to gain the world, you just might gain the world. Reliance on God always works, even if it appears not to work in the short run. #3 What does a humble dad look like? You are GROUNDED: Aware of your own shortcomings/weaknesses/limitations. No, you aren’t Negative Ned/Defeatist Dan, but you recognize the strengths of others and are open to help. GODLY: You rely on God instead of yourself. You put others’ needs before your own. You listen, sacrificing your feelings so your wife/kids feel heard and seen.

HOW TO FIX FATHERLESSNESS: Fatherlessness has a devastating impact on marriages and on the lives of children. It also has negative consequences for communities and nations. But while the numbers related to fatherless homes in America can be demoralizing, we are not without hope. God cares about fixing fatherlessness, and He wants to use His people to make a difference in the lives of fatherless sons and daughters.

WHY HUMILITY MATTERS: We see it all around us as guys. From entertainers to professional athletes to business leaders, the temptation to become the center of attention is hard to ignore. Even among men who follow Christ, the desire to be noticed and appreciated can get warped and morph into an ugly case of self-serving arrogance. In this next installment of our Proverbs 25 study, we’re going to look at humility, the polar opposite of our “me first” culture. This biblical foundation will give you a step up on taking a step out of the spotlight.

“A proud man is always looking down on things and people; and, of course, as long as you are looking down, you cannot see something that is above you.” —C. S. Lewis

“It was pride that changed angels into devils; it is humility that makes men as angels.” —Saint Augustine

“Humility is not a character trait to develop, it’s the natural by-product of being with Jesus.” —Louie Giglio

“Do not imagine that if you meet a really humble man he will be what most people call ‘humble’ nowadays: he will not be a sort of greasy, smarmy person, who is always telling you that, of course, he is nobody. Probably all you will think about him is that he seemed a cheerful, intelligent chap who took a real interest in what you said to him. If you do dislike him it will be because you feel a little envious of anyone who seems to enjoy life so easily. He will not be thinking about humility: he will not be thinking about himself at all.” ―C.S. Lewis

Humility IRL. Your kid may often ask, “Does the Bible really speak to my life?” Yes, it does. Example? Proverbs 25:6-7. Talking about humility is one way to connect your kid with God and His Word. Be curious this week. When I’m on my game, I’m a good question-asker and listener. You don’t need all the answers. Besides, God wants you to come to Him; and to point your kid to Him. Be humble and allow God to guide you both. The humble father is a faithful example to his wife and kids. Be humble this week. Trust me, it beats being humbled.

Kent Evans
Author of Bring Your Hammer, co-founder of Manhood Journey

P.S. Was this Mountain Monday helpful? Tell me if you love it, hate it, or if there’s something you’d like in the next one.

Forward this to a dad you know who needs some encouragement.