Proverbs 12:9 (NKJV) — 9 Better is the one who is slighted but has a servant, Than he who honors himself but lacks bread.

Humility is better than pride. This verse speaks of those who are lightly esteemed or held in contempt, perhaps because of their humility. If they are able to provide for their needs and have someone to serve them, they are in a much better position than proud people who lack the basic necessities of life. By exalting themselves, they may drive away those who would help them.

Humility tends to draw the right people; pride tends to drive them away. No one was more humble than Jesus, yet He had many willing to serve Him. At the same time, He was despised by those who do not value humility. (See Isaiah 53:3.)

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