There is much definite evidence in the Bible and in the writings of Mary Baker Eddy showing that humility is an essential and vital part of true spirituality. On page 142 of the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," our Leader says, "As in Jesus' time, so to-day, tyranny and pride need to be whipped out of the temple, and humility and divine Science to be welcomed in."
To one who was earnestly striving to welcome in divine Science, the words "humility" and "humble" seemed distasteful. They were associated with thoughts of lowliness, servility, and meanness. It was realized that this concept must be erroneous, and that definite steps must be taken to whip it out of her consciousness and to replace it with a correct understanding of what constitutes true humility. In striving for light, with the clear realization that the Bible and our Leader's works were tried and sure guides, she searched for the meaning of the verb "to humble." The following definition was found: "To reduce the self-sufficiency of." Instantly her thought was lifted to a new and true sense of the word.
It was simple to connect this definition at once with the thought, "Not my will, but thine, be done," and with the command, "In all thy ways acknowledge him." It was realized that simply to acknowledge that, in Jesus' words, "I can of mine own self do nothing," indicated a deep sense of active humility.
