Often--maybe always--vice lives right next door to virtue. This is true beyond any doubt with the virtue of humility, and several rather sneaky vices.
The Bible counsels that we should not think of ourselves more highly than we ought (Romans 12:3), and that we should give preference to one another in honor (Romans 12:10). However, one who fails to admit to certain abilities that he has--capabilities that exceed those of others--deprives others of the benefit of those strengths. Prestige or respect is sometimes a necessary ingredient of leadership. For one to "humbly" refuse anything that smacks of honor can prevent one from being a blessing to others. Too much humble-pie can cause one's waist to swell with a perverse sort of pride, while allowing the muscles of service to atrophy.
Hard work is a virtue the book of Proverbs frequently upholds, yet the notion that "I can do whatever needs to be done by myself." is a mark of pride.
We need the guidance of God's word and the Holy Spirit to navigate the difficult route. Sunday morning at CBC we will look at Peter's counsel to live humbly.
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