Hochmut and Demut

For the Amish, hochmut means to be prideful, while demut means to be humble. These concepts are Biblically based, and a basic part of Amish beliefs.

Proverbs 11:2
When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.

Pride can block us from hearing God’s voice. We think we know it all and we don’t need any help. When we are filled with pride, we believe we don’t need God, or at least not as much. But being humble, setting aside our own boastful spirit gives us an opportunity to listen to God’s direction.

Sometimes there are shades of gray within pride and humility. You can be proud of something you worked very hard to accomplish. You can also be so humble that people walk all over you. It’s important to be balanced, and using Proverbs 11:2 as a measuring stick can help find that balance.

Question: Are there times where you’ve been prideful? Humble? Which character trait was most beneficial to you?