5c And be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.
This exhortation to all Christians to “be clothed with humility”, first of all, tells us that no one possesses it naturally. We need to put on humility and be sure that we remain clothed with it. It is not acceptable to the Lord that those who claim to be Christians are without it. Everyone ought to make sure that he is girded with humility.
The Greek word for “be clothed” depicts an interesting description of the act of putting on humility. The word refers to the common practice of slaves tying a white apron over their clothing to distinguish themselves as slaves. Like the slaves of Peter’s time, Christians should always be distinguished by their being clothed with humility. Their mannerism and conduct ought always to be with humility so that everyone is able to recognise them. Peter exhorts the readers to fasten humility to themselves once and for all. In other words, it stays with them for the rest of their lives.
Being clothed with humility is to be girded with the “vesture” of servitude. Every Christian should always be ready for service. Unfortunately, some Christians conduct themselves like those who are in the ceremonial dresses. They have no mind to serve humbly. They would be quite shocked if someone were to ask them to exert a little hard work. This sort of prideful behaviour is detrimental to the church’s unity and progress.
In our church life, each one of us should think humbly of himself and highly of his brethren. Humility in our church life will require of us never to be rough, haughty, arrogant, disagreeable, domineering, lordly, unruly, quarrelsome or unreasonable. True humility in church relationships will manifest itself in our willingness to undertake the meanest tasks for Christ’s glory and the benefit of our fellow brethren.
Christians should heed the exhortation to be humble because God sets His face against the proud. “Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished” (Proverbs 16:5). On the other hand, those who submit to God’s sovereignty in humility will find that He will lift them up and reward them. God’s gracious presence always accompanies those who humbly serve Him. Indeed, He lavishes His grace upon the humble.