The secret of the sublime achievements of the meek and mighty Christ Jesus is indicated in his words: "I can of mine own self do nothing," and, "The Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works" (John 5:30; John 14:10). He knew that God, the cause of all existence, is the source of all power and action, and that man, the effect of the one cause, has no ability or activity apart from God. From this knowledge of man's unity with and dependence on God came the Master's humility.
Through our acknowledgment of God, omnipotent Mind, omniacting Principle, as the origin and controller of all, we too can express the humility that is might. For Christian Science teaches that humility is not conservatism or timidity, as it is sometimes pictured. It is the epitome of courage and stamina. It is not false modesty or expediency, which feigns meekness to gain human power. There is no virtue in shyness, nor does God expect us to be door mats. But the acknowledgment that all might and movement is of God bases action that is neither too timid nor too bold; neither too soon nor too late. The greatest of all strength comes when with childlike trust one listens for God's voice and obeys His will.
Mary Baker Eddy speaks of humility as essential to spiritual growth and links it with honesty, obedience, gratitude, unworldliness, wisdom, and love. She says (Miscellaneous Writings, p. 354), "Experience shows that humility is the first step in Christian Science, wherein all is controlled, not by man or laws material, but by wisdom, Truth, and Love."
