Summary of "What True Humility Really Looks Like" Episode of The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast
• Host/Author: Ascension
• Description: Faith, pop culture, and headline reflections from Fr. Mike Schmitz.
• Episode: What True Humility Really Looks Like
• Release Date: January 16, 2025

Introduction

In this insightful episode, Father Mike Schmitz delves deep into the concepts of humility and confidence, exploring whether they can coexist and how they manifest in a Christian's life. He challenges common misconceptions and offers a nuanced understanding grounded in truth and faith.

Defining Humility and Confidence

Father Mike begins by questioning the common belief that humility equates to thinking less of oneself. He references the Rick Warren and C.S. Lewis quote:

"Humility is not thinking less of yourself. It's thinking of yourself less." ([02:15])

He clarifies that true humility isn't about self-deprecation but about focusing less on oneself and more on others and the truth.

The Misconception: Humility Equals Shrinking

Many perceive humility as a form of shrinking back or avoiding greatness. Father Mike counters this by asserting that humility doesn't diminish one's capacity to lead or act boldly.

"A person can actually take the reins. The person can actually take the wheel. The person actually can lead in a powerful and bold and confident way while being humble." ([04:30])

True Humility Defined

Father Mike defines true humility as the willingness to tell the truth and live in that truth. This involves:

• Acknowledging Strengths and Weaknesses:

  "I'm really good at X and also I'm not good at Y." ([06:45])

• Receiving Compliments Gracefully:

  "Yeah, it was. It was. Good job. Thank you very much." ([08:10])

• Accepting Criticism Constructively:

  "You can accept the criticism with confidence and humility and live in that truth." ([09:25])

The Interplay Between Confidence and Humility

Contrary to popular belief, confidence isn't opposed to humility. Father Mike explains that confidence stems from competence:

"The more competent you are, the more confident you are." ([12:00])

He emphasizes that genuine confidence arises from knowing one's abilities and limitations, allowing one to navigate challenges effectively.

Competence Leads to Confidence

Using the analogy of driving and handling a flat tire, Father Mike illustrates how competence in specific areas builds confidence:

"The more competent you are at driving your car, the more confident you are about driving your car." ([13:40])

He warns against distorted confidence where individuals overextend their expertise beyond their genuine competencies.

Humility in Recognizing Limitations

Humility involves acknowledging when one lacks competence and having the courage to seek help:

"I'm not confident I can do it on my own, but I'm also humble so I can ask someone for help." ([17:15])

This balance between confidence in one's abilities and humility in recognizing limitations fosters both personal growth and authentic relationships.

Christian Perspective on Humility and Confidence

Father Mike ties the discussion to Christian theology, highlighting that Christians are called to embody both humility and confidence through their relationship with God:

"A Christian... should be simultaneously the most humble and the most confident person you've ever met." ([22:30])

He explains that understanding one's identity in Christ—created for greatness yet recognizing one's brokenness—fuels this duality.

Living in Truth and Grace

Central to living humbly and confidently is embracing the truth of God's love and grace:

"I'm telling the truth. I don't deserve to be loved, but I am loved." ([25:50])

This profound realization empowers Christians to live authentically, free from self-deception, and resilient in the face of criticism or praise.

The Power of Truth in Relationships

Walking in truth allows Christians to engage in relationships with genuine humility and confidence. They are not swayed by external validations but anchored in their faith and understanding of self-worth in God's eyes.

"They're not self-deceived, they're not overly puffed up by compliments and they're not deflated by insults." ([28:10])

Conclusion

Father Mike Schmitz encapsulates the essence of true humility as living in and speaking the truth with confidence rooted in competence and faith. He urges listeners to embrace their God-given strengths and acknowledge their limitations, fostering a balanced and authentic Christian life.

"Confidence is an essential part of humility... These two things, humility and confidence, they really do go together." ([30:05])

Final Thoughts

The episode reinforces that true humility is not about diminishing oneself but about living authentically, grounded in truth and empowered by faith. Father Mike encourages listeners to pursue excellence, build genuine confidence through competence, and maintain humility by recognizing their need for God's grace and the support of others.

Notable Quotes:

• "Humility is not thinking less of yourself. It's thinking of yourself less." – Rick Warren/C.S. Lewis ([02:15])
• "A person can actually take the reins. The person can actually take the wheel. The person actually can lead in a powerful and bold and confident way while being humble." – Father Mike Schmitz ([04:30])
• "I'm really good at X and also I'm not good at Y." – Father Mike Schmitz ([06:45])
• "The more competent you are, the more confident you are." – Father Mike Schmitz ([12:00])
• "I'm telling the truth. I don't deserve to be loved, but I am loved." – Father Mike Schmitz ([25:50])

This episode offers a profound exploration of humility and confidence, encouraging listeners to integrate these virtues into their daily lives through truth, competence, and faith.