Is there a word for "to make humble" with a positive connotation?

Solution 1:

I think the verb humble is at least more neutral than humiliate, although the connotation might not be specifically positive.

Some examples via COCA from various sources:

That's the sign that little Melipona, messenger of the gods, has been trying to deliver all along. The missive is so literal, I can't help but feel humbled - and connected. The message is simple and sweet.

It's so amazing to have my name on a list with these other women. I feel very humbled by it. I just feel honored.

I don't think these examples carry the negative connotation that humiliate does.

Solution 2:

Perhaps a slight variation on humiliate -

"Having children of my own gave me a new humility."

While they both come from the same Latin roots, humiliate now means

to hurt the pride or dignity of by causing to be or seem foolish or contemptible; mortify

but humility means

the state or quality of being humble; absence of pride or self-assertion

This is not a negative connotation, but neutral to positive.