My friend declared, as he tried to keep a straight face, Im so proud of my humility! That reminds me of the joke about a leader who was given an award for his humility. Because he accepted the award, it was taken back the following week!
David seemed to be making the same error when he said, My heart is not haughty (Ps. 131:1). When we understand the text, however, we know that he wasnt boasting about his humility. Rather, in response to the accusation of treason made by Sauls men, David stated he didnt consider himself so important nor think of himself so highly as to have lofty eyes.
Instead, David learned to be like a weaned child in the Lords arms (v.2). Like a baby who is completely dependent on his parents, he waited on God for His protection while he was a fugitive under King Sauls pursuit. In his darkest hour, David realized his need and then advised his people: Hope in the Lord from this time forth and forever (v.3).
The path to humility is twofold. It involves knowing who we arehaving a proper self-esteem rather than thinking too highly of self. But most important, it requires knowing who God isholding Him in highest esteem and trusting Him for His best in His time.