The Rule of St. Benedict for Daily Life: Learning to Listen to God with a Discerning Heart with Kris McGregor Episode 22 – The Seventh Degree of Humility

In this episode of The Rule of St. Benedict for Daily Life, Kris McGregor reflects on the Seventh Degree of Humility from Chapter 7 of the Holy Rule. St. Benedict moves more deeply into the interior life, describing humility not simply as outward behavior but as a truth the heart gradually comes to accept before God. Through earlier practices of obedience, endurance, honesty, and acceptance of ordinary life, the heart is slowly freed from the constant need to measure itself against others.

St. Benedict addresses the subtle habit of comparison that often shapes how people see themselves. We compare gifts, responsibilities, and recognition, quietly measuring where we stand. The Seventh Degree of Humility loosens that restless habit. A humble heart no longer needs to secure its importance or defend its place. Instead, it learns to live honestly before God, recognizing that whatever good exists in life has been received through grace.

This teaching does not deny human dignity. It reveals a deeper freedom. When a person no longer builds identity on status or comparison, the heart becomes simpler and more peaceful. Looking to Christ, who emptied Himself and entrusted everything to the Father, this episode invites listeners to discover humility as a path toward truth, steadiness and freedom before God.

Citations

Benedict of Nursia, The Rule of Saint Benedict, Chapter 7 § 51-52 (RB 1980)

“The seventh degree of humility is that a person not only consider himself inferior to others,
but truly believe it in his heart,
humbling himself and saying with the Prophet:
‘I am a worm and no man, the scorn of men and the outcast of the people.’”

“Septimus humilitatis gradus est, si omnibus se inferiorem existimet, et hoc non solum ore sed etiam in corde credat, humilians se et dicens cum Propheta: Ego autem sum vermis et non homo, opprobrium hominum et abiectio plebis.”

Luke 18:14, RSV–CE

“For every one who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

1. Where do I find myself comparing my work, recognition, or gifts with those of others?

2. How does comparison affect my peace and my ability to serve freely?

3. Do I feel a need to protect my place, reputation, or importance in certain situations?

4. What would it look like to stand before God more simply and honestly today?

5. How does Christ’s humility challenge the way I measure my own worth?

For other episodes in this series, visit The Rule Of St. Benedict For Daily Life: Learning To Listen To God With A Discerning Heart Pick up a copy of The Rule of St. Benedict here

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