Freedom Through Humility
Humility That Heals
One of the most transformative moments in life is when we confront our own brokenness. It’s an act of humility that brings healing—a moment when pride crumbles, and truth rises to the surface. In recovery, this process is famously captured in Step 5 of AA: admitting to God, ourselves, and another human being the exact nature of our wrongs. This step requires a courage that can feel impossible, but it’s rooted in a profound biblical principle: confession and humility lead to freedom.
The Power of Confession
The Bible speaks clearly about the power of confession:
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” (James 5:16, NIV)
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9, ESV)
These verses don’t just highlight the act of confession but emphasize the purpose behind it—healing and restoration. Admitting our wrongs to another person is not about shaming ourselves; it’s about freeing our souls from the chains of secrecy and guilt. It’s about stepping into the light where truth can transform us.
Humility: A Pathway to Redemption
Humility, as described in Scripture, isn’t weakness—it’s strength under control. Jesus demonstrated this when He washed the disciples’ feet, teaching that true greatness is found in servanthood (John 13:12–17). In our own lives, humility often looks like being honest about our flaws rather than hiding behind a façade of perfection.
When I finally let go and shared my truth, I didn’t realize it at the time, but what I was experiencing was biblical humility—not self-loathing, but an honest acknowledgment of who I had been and a willingness to change. It wasn’t about diminishing myself but recognizing that I needed grace.
Why We Resist Humility
Pride is deeply rooted in human nature. We want to appear strong, resilient, and unaffected by our past mistakes. Admitting our failures feels like giving away our power. Yet, Scripture tells us:
“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” (James 4:6, NIV)
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” (James 4:10, NIV)
Humility doesn’t make us weak; it makes us teachable. It allows us to learn from our past rather than be defined by it. When we shed our pride, we make space for God’s grace to work in us.
The Freedom of Sharing
There’s a reason why Step 5 isn’t done in isolation. We are called to community, to walk alongside one another in love and truth. The Bible consistently points to the value of relationships:
“Two are better than one... If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10, NIV)
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2, ESV)
When I shared my truth, I realized that the person across from me wasn’t just a passive listener—they were someone waiting for a glimpse of themselves in my story. In that moment, I learned that freedom is not just personal—it’s communal. When we dare to speak our truth, we give others permission to do the same.
Living in Freedom
Confessing and being honest about our failures doesn’t guarantee that others will understand or accept us immediately. But that’s not the point. The purpose of humility is not validation from others; it’s alignment with God’s truth. In His presence, we find both conviction and comfort.
Have you ever felt that nagging fear of being truly known? Maybe it’s time to take a step of faith—to humble yourself, speak your truth, and find freedom on the other side. Don’t let fear of judgment keep you chained. The path of humility may be challenging, but it leads to the kind of freedom that can’t be found any other way.
Take the Step
Today, ask yourself:
What truth have I been holding back?
Am I willing to humble myself before God and another person to find healing?
Who in my life could I trust to walk with me through my story?
You don’t have to walk this path alone. Seek out those who will listen without judgment, pray without ceasing, and encourage you as you embrace freedom. Remember—humility doesn’t diminish you. It refines you. It’s in your raw, unfiltered honesty that God’s grace shines brightest.
Let today be the day you step into the light—free at last.
*** This post draws inspiration from the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), specifically Step 5: "Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs." AA’s program has been a guiding light for countless individuals seeking recovery and freedom through honesty and humility. I am grateful for the wisdom and support that AA offers to those on the journey to sobriety.
