Book Review: Humility: The Journey Toward Holiness by Andrew Murray
Andrew Murray (1828-1917), a prolific South African pastor, evangelist, and writer, remains one of the most beloved devotional authors in Christian history. His works, characterized by their profound spiritual insight and practical guidance, continue to resonate with believers seeking deeper communion with God. Among his most enduring contributions is Humility: The Journey Toward Holiness, a concise yet profoundly impactful treatise that calls believers to embrace the foundational virtue of humility as the pathway to true spiritual growth and Christlikeness.
The central thesis of Humility is that humility is not merely one virtue among many, but the very essence of true holiness and the indispensable prerequisite for all other graces. Murray argues that just as pride was the root of humanity's fall, so humility is the key to restoration and conformity to Christ, who Himself "humbled Himself" (Philippians 2:8). He meticulously unpacks what genuine humility looks like, contrasting it with false humility and self-exaltation. Murray contends that humility is not a feeling of self-abasement, but a profound recognition of our utter dependence on God and a willingness to take the lowest place, allowing God to be all in all. He explores how humility manifests in our relationship with God, with others, and within ourselves, ultimately presenting it as the very character of Christ that we are called to embody.
Murray's writing style is devotional, meditative, and deeply spiritual.
His prose is simple, direct, and often repetitive in a way that aids memorization and reflection, emphasizing key truths. The book is short, designed to be read slowly and prayerfully, allowing its profound message to sink deep into the reader's heart. He draws heavily on Scripture, particularly the example of Jesus, to illustrate his points. His tone is gentle yet convicting, inviting readers to self-examination and a sincere pursuit of this often-overlooked virtue. The book reads like a series of interconnected meditations, each building upon the last to create a comprehensive picture of what it means to be truly humble.
One of the greatest strengths of Humility is its timelessness and universal applicability. The struggle with pride is a perennial human condition, and Murray's insights remain as relevant today as they were over a century ago. The book offers a powerful corrective to a self-centered culture, challenging believers to reorient their lives around God's glory and the needs of others. Its focus on practical outworkings of humility in daily life makes it highly actionable, encouraging readers to move beyond intellectual assent to genuine transformation. Many readers have testified to the profound impact this small book has had on their spiritual journey, often leading to a renewed sense of dependence on God and a deeper love for others.
However, some modern readers might find the language slightly archaic, though it is generally accessible. The book's intense focus on humility means it doesn't delve into other aspects of holiness or Christian living, serving instead as a concentrated meditation on this one foundational virtue. Its devotional nature also means it is less of a systematic theological treatise and more of a spiritual exhortation.
In conclusion, Humility: The Journey Toward Holiness is a spiritual classic that every Christian would do well to read and reread. Andrew Murray provides an unparalleled guide to understanding and cultivating the virtue that lies at the heart of Christlikeness. It is a profound, challenging, and ultimately liberating book that reveals humility not as a weakness, but as the very strength that opens us up to God's grace and empowers us to live lives that truly reflect His character.
