God Gives Grace unto the Humble
But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. (James 4:6, KJV)
The grace mentioned in this passage may not be what we expect. Rather than unmerited favor, it is favor given specifically to the humble. This is not a contradiction. So, what does it mean that God gives grace to the humble, and how does this apply to your life? Could this be the missing piece you need to reach the next level in your life?
Understanding “grace” here requires recognizing a key Bible study principle: the same word can have different meanings in different verses. The grace in James 4:6 is not the same as the grace in Ephesians 2:8-9, which speaks of salvation through grace. Ignoring this distinction has caused many misinterpretations of Scripture.
In James 4:6, grace refers to divine empowerment—God’s favor that enables success. A comparable concept is “blessing.” This grace is God’s power that brings honor, prosperity, and success. So, when God gives grace to the humble, He grants favor that enables them to flourish.
What’s surprising about this grace is that it’s not unconditional. It is given in response to humility, meaning not everyone, even believers, receives it. Some Christians may be walking in God’s grace due to their humility, while others may not. Even more surprising, God may actively oppose the proud.
Who are the humble? Humility in this verse refers primarily to our attitude toward God. Jesus defined humility in Matthew 5:3:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3)
The humble recognize their need for God. It’s not about material wealth—a poor person can still be proud before God. Neither is humility self-deprecation or denying our blessings in Christ. Humility acknowledges that everything—our abilities, opportunities, and achievements—comes from God.
God’s response to humility is grace. Grace can be given and received. Humility is a sure way to receive God’s grace. The moment we think we’ve “arrived” in our walk with Him—whether in ministry or personal achievements—we begin to fall. It’s sobering to think God can oppose someone due to pride, but He gives grace to the humble.
So “humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” (James 4:10)
Meditate
Reflect on your life. Are there areas where pride has taken root? How can you actively humble yourself before God?
Act on the Word
Practice humility today by acknowledging your need and dependence on the Lord (Proverbs 3:6). You needed Him when you were a sinner, and you need Him now as His child. When we recognize that all we have comes from God, we avoid pride toward others (1 Corinthians 4:7). Have a healthy perspective of yourself—not depreciated, but divine and godly.
Pray
Lord, give me the grace to walk humbly before You. Help me recognize my need for Your guidance in all things. Amen.
Recommended Read
- God Resisteth the Proud
- The Humble Spirit
- Pride goes before a fall
- The Imperishable Beauty of a Gentle and Quiet Spirit
- All Deshen Daily Devotionals
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