I’m currently finishing a book on pastoral humility and humble leadership called The Humility Factor. Here is a little excerpt that cites one of the best examples of a pastor who is indeed humble.
Proverbs 24:4 states, “The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life,” and each of these are evident in Pastor Billy Graham’s life. Though he would never boast, he has had earthly rewards in material possessions because of his notoriety, books, and speaking. For years, he was considered “America’s pastor” and made regular trips to the White House and participated in the swearing-in of presidents. Due to his extensive world travel through missions and revivals, few people in the world have the fame and honor which he has, and this year he will celebrate his 99th birthday.
The following is a short description of Thom Rainer’s encounter with Billy Graham.
True Life Story
The first time I met Billy Graham, he took my hand to shake it and said, “It is an honor to meet you.” I was stunned. Here was one of the most famous men in the world, and he humbly spoke of the honor of meeting me. I could hardly refrain from saying, “I’m me. You’re Graham. You’ve got this honor thing backwards.”
Can you imagine Billy Graham saying that it was “an honor to meet you?” Actually, yes, because that is the kind of humble pastor he is. On the Billy Graham web site, there is an article that outlines Billy’s 12 Things to Humble Yourself, written by Janet Chismar amd is an excellent blueprint for all leaders to follow as they lead their organizations.
- Routinely confess your sin to God
- Acknowledge your sin to others
- Take wrong patiently
- Actively submit to authority…the good and the bad
- Receive correction and feedback from others graciously
- Accept a lowly place
- Purposefully associate with people of a lower state than you
- Choose to serve others
- Be quick to forgive
- Cultivate a grateful heart)
- Purpose to speak well of others
- Treat pride as a condition that always necessitates embracing the cross
In The Humility Factor I highlight many great examples of humble pastors and leaders, and few would argue that Billy Graham is one of the most humble pastors of all time. Graham follows the example set by Jesus and many other faithful servants in Christian church history, including St. Augustine, who is quoted in a book by my friend Arron Chambers, “What you ask me: What is the first thing in religion? I should reply: The first, second, and third thing therein is humility.”
Take another look at Billy Graham’s list of things to become humble. Give yourself a checkup and make the decision to be a humble leader.
Lead well.