HUMILITY and dominion may seem at first sight to be opposite extremes; but this is due to misconception of their true meaning. When we stop to analyze these qualities and gain a more accurate understanding of them, we find they are closely correlated and complementary. We find that humility is a prerequisite of spiritual dominion.
Why is this true? Humility leads to receptivity and obedience; and when one is willing to be taught, and is obedient to law, dominion results. This is so in any line of endeavor. If one would gain dominion in music, a mastery of it, it is necessary first to acknowledge one's ignorance, deficiency, and need of instruction. This makes one willing to strive for an understanding of the rules governing harmony; and practical obedience to these rules results in one's becoming a musician.
Humility, meekness, modesty, and deference are characteristics of one who serves properly; whereas dominion, authority, influence, power, are attributed to the master or one who is served. It might seem impossible that one and the same individual could express both; yet Jesus said, "If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all." Jesus' life was an example of this truth. In humility he acknowledged his inability to do anything as of himself, giving God the glory for every triumph. His life was a life of service, and yet he gained the appellation of "Master" and had dominion over sin, sickness, and death.
