BCIC Humility Sample

Humility Recognizing that without the help of God and others my achievements in life would not have been possible

“But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.” JAMES 4:6

THE PUBLICAN PLEADS FOR MERCY “The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are . . . . And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, . . . saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.”

LUKE 18:11, 13

SPIRITUAL GIFT:

BIBLICAL CHARACTER ILLUSTRATED CURRICULUM Illustrated in Scripture, Illustrated in Life

Organizer

CONTENTS

Biblical Character Illustrated Curriculum Illustrated in Scripture “The testimony of the Lord is sure, making

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wise the simple” (Psalm 19:7b). Biblical

Introduction

character is illustrated in this curriculum

2 How to Use This Curriculum

through both artwork and lessons from

3 Goals and Objectives

the lives of people in God’s Word. We most

4 Character Quality Overview

often benefit from the positive examples

5 Humility in Scripture

of faithful men and women. “For whatso-

6 Lesson 1:

See My True Condition

written for our learning, that we through

7 Bible Story: The Publican Pleads for Mercy

patience and comfort of the scriptures

8 Memory Verse: I Corinthians 15:10

might have hope” (Romans 15:4). There were

9 Activity: True Heart Conditions Revealed

also people in the Bible who are repre-

10 Lesson 2:

Have a Teachable Spirit

11 Bible Story: Eighty Priests Confront a Stubborn King 12 Memory Verse: Proverbs 9:9 13 Activity: Let’s Make Playdough!

14 Lesson 3: Acknowledge Those Who Have Helped Me Succeed 15 Bible Story: King Ahasuerus Commends a Faithful Man 16 Memory Verse: I Thessalonians 5:12–13 17 Activity: Passing the Praise

18 Lesson 4:

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ever things were written aforetime were

Avoid Boasting or Bragging

sentations of poor character, and we can learn from their lives as well. “Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted” (I Corinthians 10:6). We would be wise to learn from the testimonies God has given us in Scripture.

Illustrated in Life “Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). Hearing the Word of God causes us to grow in faith.

This curriculum offers many practical

19 Bible Story: God Responds to Nebuchadnezzar’s Boasting

applications of God’s Word to everyday

20 Memory Verse: James 4:6

hearers only” (James 1:22). As God enables

21 Activity: Crossword Puzzle

us to act in faith, our lives as believers will

Additional Resources

life. “But be ye doers of the word, and not

illustrate His character to others.

22 Humility GEMs 23 Journal and GEM

Mine

24 Hymn Sheet Music: “Amazing Grace” 25 Hymn History: “Amazing Grace” by John Newton 26 Explaining Salvation to a Child 27 Reproducible Coloring Pages 31 Recommended Resources

The character of God is illustrated in Scripture.

May it also be illustrated in our lives.

Character Quality Overview What Is Humility?

Read aloud and discuss what humility means and how it applies to life.

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he operational definition of humility is “recognizing that without the help of God and others my achievements in life would not have been possible.”

Without God, you would not even have air to breathe!

Without the care of others, you would not have been able to survive. Every person on the planet is dependent on God and others, so there is no reason to feel more important than anyone else. In contrast to us, God is self-sufficient, all-knowing, and all-powerful—He reigns over all the earth, now and forever! Do you see how lowly we all are compared to the greatness of God? “What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?” (Psalm 8:4). May we respond with praise to God for Who He is and thank Him for His many blessings.

The opposite of humility is pride. Pride is an exaggerated view of oneself.

Did you know that all conflict is rooted in pride?

(See Proverbs 13:10.) A proud person thinks he is better than other people. He does not want to acknowledge his need for God or anyone else.

Washing dirty feet was regarded He talks about his own as a lowly task in Biblical times. A strengths and downplays humble person will lovingly serve others’ abilities. A proud others, even in menial ways. person assumes he has the right to make his own decisions. Pride was first expressed when Lucifer said in his heart, “. . . I will be

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like the most High” (Isaiah 14:14). His intention was to compete with God and to receive praise that belongs only to God. Therefore, God cast Lucifer to earth, where he became Satan and tempted Adam and Eve to rebel against God. Since the Garden of Eden, people have pridefully wanted to live independently of God and have their own way. Pride is an abomination to the Lord that will not go unpunished. (See Proverbs 16:5.)

Putting ourselves down or comparing ourselves with more successful people may give the appearance of humility.

However, as we exhibit that false humility, our focus A puffer fish enlarges his body to is still on ourselves, appear larger than his normal size. which is pride. If we Similarly, a person who is “puffed up” are honest, we will with pride attempts to present himself as better than he is. realize that these actions are actually efforts to gain attention, affirmation, or sympathy.

When we focus on Christ, we will find freedom from thoughts that are self-condemning or self-promoting.

Once we trust Christ for salvation, our minds can be renewed as we meditate on God’s Word and obey the Holy Spirit’s promptings. Then our motives, attitudes, and actions will reflect the Lord’s humility and draw attention to Him, not us. “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls” (Matthew 11:29).

Humility in Scripture

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s you read and study God’s Word, you will see Who He is! Be willing to be changed by

Him so Christ can be seen through your life and

HUMILITY KEY VERSE “But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.” JAMES 4:6

others will glorify God.

The Character of God

Humility in My Life

We see examples of humility in God’s character in the following ways:

Now let’s examine some ways God wants us to live out humility daily.

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God Almighty humbles Himself to consider things in Heaven and on earth.

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(See Psalm 113:5–6.)

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Jesus submitted to both His Heavenly Father and His earthly parents.

(See Mark 14:36, Luke 2:51.)

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Jesus humbled Himself to become human, dwell on earth, and even die on a cross for our sin.

(See Psalm 10:17.)

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Christ’s works caused people to glorify His Father.

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Jesus willingly took on lowly tasks such as washing His disciples’ dirty feet.

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The Holy Spirit does not speak of Himself but speaks only what He hears from the Father.

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The Holy Spirit demonstrates humility by dwelling in unworthy human vessels.

(See I Corinthians 3:16, II Corinthians 4:7.)

What is my role if I desire to see God heal my nation?

(See II Chronicles 7:14.)

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(See John 16:13.)

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Who is great in God’s Kingdom?

(See Matthew 18:4, Luke 22:26.)

(See John 13:14–15.)

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Whose responsibility is it to be humble, and whose responsibility is it to exalt?

(See Psalm 75:6–7, James 4:10.)

(See Luke 18:42–43.)

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What does God think of pride?

(See Proverbs 6:16–17.)

(See Matthew 20:28, Philippians 2:6–8.)

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How does God respond to people who are humble?

What can I “put on” that is precious in the sight of God? (See I Peter 3:3–4, 5:5.)

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Whom am I to honor as better than myself?

(See Philippians 2:3, I Peter 2:17.)

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GOD ENABLES ME TO

See My True Condition INTRODUCTION

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o you consider yourself to be more spiritual than other people because you know many Bible stories and verses? Maybe you feel superior because of your abilities. Remember that everyone, including you, comes into this world with nothing! Every person is born helpless and totally dependent upon someone else for food, clothing, and protection. Everyone is also born with a sinful heart. God wants you to see your true condition—you need His forgiveness of your sin and His grace to live the Christian life. (See John 15:5.) Rather than striving to impress God or others, repent of your self-reliance. Rest in the forgiveness and love of the Lord, Who knew your true condition yet gave His life to redeem you. This salvation shows how gracious God is!

(See Ephesians 2:4–8.)

The Publican Pleads for Mercy

HUMILITY Recognizing that without the help of God and others my achievements in life would not have been possible 6

BIBLE STORY

LESSON 1 See My True Condition

The Publican Pleads for Mercy

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rayer was an important part of Jesus’ life on earth. His public ministry began with prayer to

to provide for their needs. Another time, Jesus told a

His Father after He was baptized by John the Baptist.

persistent prayer. In the parable, a widow pleaded with

(See Matthew 4:2.) On the cross, Jesus concluded His

a judge and would not stop until she received justice.

earthly ministry when He prayed, “Father, into thy

Jesus also told a parable about two men who went to the

hands I commend my spirit.” Prayer is talking with

Temple to pray. The two men were opposites: one was a

God, realizing that we are dependent on Him and that

despised tax collector and the other man was a religious

He is worthy of praise. Often after Jesus preached and

leader. How would each man approach God in prayer?

healed, He would retreat to a quiet place to talk to His

parable which illustrated that His Father rewards

Would each recognize his true spiritual condition

Father. When the disciples asked Jesus to teach them

before God? Which person would be justified by God?

how to pray, He told them to approach God rever-

Let’s read the Bible story in Luke 18:9–14 and then discuss the following questions.

ently, repent of their sin, forgive others, and trust God

1. To whom was Jesus telling the parable of the Pharisee and the publican? (See Luke 18:9.)

When do you tend to view yourself as being better than someone else? How does God say you are to view yourself? (See Romans 12:3.)

2. To whom did the Pharisee compare himself?

(See Luke 18:11.)

What faults or habits do you criticize in others?

Is it wise to compare yourself to others?

(See II Corinthians 10:12.) What does your judgment of others reveal about yourself?

(See Romans 2:1, 3:10.)

3. How many times did the Pharisee use the word “I” in his prayer? (See Luke 18:11–12.)

Do you talk about yourself a lot? When you do good deeds, are they done for your glory or for God’s? How did Jesus say to do good deeds for God’s glory? (See Matthew 6:1–4.)

4. In what was the Pharisee trusting?

(See Luke 18:12.)

Do you try to make yourself look good before others? Why do you think that it is difficult to admit when you are wrong?

5. What four things did the publican do and say that revealed he knew his true heart condition?

(See Luke 18:13.)

When have you asked God for mercy? What heart attitude will God receive? (See Psalm 51:17.)

6. According to Jesus, which man was forgiven and made right, or justified, in God’s sight?

(See Luke 18:14a.)

If you have asked Jesus for forgiveness, what is your true condition now? (See Galatians 4:4–7, II Corinthians 5:17.)

7. What did Jesus say about those who exalt themselves and those who humble themselves?

(See Luke 18:14b.)

What does the Bible warn about pride?

(See Proverbs 16:5, 18.) How does God respond to the humble? (See Isaiah 57:15, James 4:6, 10.)

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Operational Definitions of Character Qualities ALERTNESS vs. Unawareness

ATTENTIVENESS vs. Unconcern

AVAILABILITY vs. Self-Centeredness

BOLDNESS vs. Fearfulness

CAUTIOUSNESS vs. Rashness

COMPASSION vs. Indifference

CONTENTMENT vs. Covetousness

Being aware of that which is taking place around me so that I can have the right response to it

Showing the worth of a person by giving undivided concentration to his words and emotions

Making my own schedule and priorities secondary to the wishes of those I am serving

Confidence that what I have to say or do is true and right and just in the sight of God

Knowing how important right timing is in accomplishing right actions

Investing whatever is necessary to heal the hurts of others

Realizing that God has provided everything I need for my present happiness

Mark 14:38

Hebrews 2:1

Acts 4:29

Proverbs 19:2

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Philippians 2:20–21

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I John 3:17

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I Timothy 6:8

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CREATIVITY vs. Underachievement

DECISIVENESS vs. Double-mindedness

DEFERENCE vs. Rudeness

DEPENDABILITY vs. Inconsistency

DETERMINATION vs. Faintheartedness

DILIGENCE vs. Slothfulness

DISCERNMENT vs. Judgment

Approaching a need, a task, or an idea from a new perspective

The ability to finalize difficult decisions based on the will and ways of God

Limiting my freedom in order not to offend the tastes of those God has called me to serve

Fulfilling what I consented to do even if it means unexpected sacrifice

Purposing to accomplish God’s goals in God’s time regardless of the opposition

The God-given ability to understand why things happen

James 1:5

Romans 14:21

Visualizing each task as a special assignment from the Lord and using all my energies to accomplish it

Romans 12:2

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Psalm 15:4

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II Timothy 4:7–8

Colossians 3:23

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I Samuel 16:7

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DISCRETION vs. Simplemindedness

ENDURANCE vs. Giving Up

ENTHUSIASM vs. Apathy

FAITH vs. Unbelief

FLEXIBILITY vs. Resistance

FORGIVENESS vs. Rejection

GENEROSITY vs. Stinginess

The ability to avoid words, actions, and attitudes that could result in undesirable consequences

The inward strength to withstand stress to accomplish God’s best

Fervently expressing with my soul the joy of my spirit

Visualizing what God intends to do in a given situation and acting in harmony with it

Not setting my affections on ideas or plans that could be changed by God or others

Clearing the record of those who have wronged me and allowing God to love them through me

Realizing that all I have belongs to God and using it for His purposes

Hebrews 11:1

Colossians 3:2

Ephesians 4:32

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Proverbs 22:3

Galatians 6:9

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I Thessalonians 5:16, 19

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S

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II Corinthians 9:6

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GENTLENESS vs. Harshness

GRATEFULNESS vs. Unthankfulness

HOSPITALITY vs. Loneliness

HUMILITY vs. Pride

INITIATIVE vs. Unresponsiveness

JOYFULNESS vs. Self-Pity

JUSTICE vs. Corruption

Showing personal care and concern in meeting the needs of others

Making known to God and others in what ways they have benefited my life

Cheerfully sharing food, shelter, and spiritual refreshment with those God brings into my life

Recognizing and doing what needs to be done before I am asked to do it

Delighting in fellowship with the Lord regardless of my circumstances

Personal responsibility to uphold God’s unchanging laws

I Corinthians 4:7

Hebrews 13:2

Recognizing that without the help of God and others my achievements in life would not have been possible

Romans 12:21

Psalm 16:11

Micah 6:8

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I Thessalonians 2:7

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S

James 4:6

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LOVE vs. Selfishness

LOYALTY vs. Unfaithfulness

MEEKNESS vs. Anger

OBEDIENCE vs. Willfulness

ORDERLINESS vs. Disorganization

PATIENCE vs. Restlessness

PERSUASIVENESS vs. Contentiousness

Giving to others’ basic needs without having as my motive personal reward

Using difficult times to demonstrate my commitment to God and to those He has called me to serve

Yielding my personal rights and expectations to God

Eagerly yielding to God’s Word rather than following my own will

Preparing myself and my surroundings so I will achieve the greatest efficiency

Guiding vital truths around another’s mental roadblocks

Psalm 62:5

II Corinthians 10:5

I Corinthians 14:40

Accepting a difficult situation from God without giving Him a deadline to remove it

I Corinthians 13:3

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John 15:13

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Romans 5:3–4

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II Timothy 2:24

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PUNCTUALITY vs. Tardiness

RESOURCEFULNESS vs. Wastefulness

RESPONSIBILITY vs. Unreliability

REVERENCE vs. Disrespect

SECURITY vs. Anxiety

SELF-CONTROL vs. Self-Indulgence

SENSITIVITY vs. Callousness

Showing high esteem for other people and their time

Wise use of that which others would normally overlook or discard

Knowing and doing what both God and others are expecting from me

Luke 16:10

Romans 14:12

Structuring my life around that which is eternal and cannot be destroyed or taken away

Instant obedience to the initial promptings of God’s Spirit

Ecclesiastes 3:1

Awareness of how God is working through the people and events in my life to produce the character of Christ in me

Exercising my senses so I can perceive the true spirit and emotions of those around me

Proverbs 23:17–18

John 6:27

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Galatians 5:24–25

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Romans 12:15

SINCERITY vs. Hypocrisy

THOROUGHNESS vs. Incompleteness

THRIFTINESS vs. Extravagance

TOLERANCE vs. Prejudice

TRUTHFULNESS vs. Deception

VIRTUE vs. Impurity

WISDOM vs. Natural Inclinations

Eagerness to do what is right, with transparent motives

Knowing what factors will diminish the effectiveness of my work or words if neglected

Not letting myself or others spend that which is not necessary

Acceptance of others as unique expressions of specific character qualities in varying degrees of maturity

Earning future trust by accurately reporting past facts

The moral excellence and purity of spirit that radiate from my life as I obey God’s Word

Seeing and responding to life’s situations from God’s frame of reference

G Philippians 2:2

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I Peter 1:22

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T P— Prophet

Proverbs 18:15

S— Server

Luke 16:11

G T—Teacher

E— Exhorter

Ephesians 4:25

P G— Giver

II Peter 1:3–5

O— Organizer

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Proverbs 9:10

M— Mercy

Revealing the character of Christ through the stories in His Word.

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