Growing in Humility
Today’s reading is out of Philippians 2:3-11. Begin today’s devotion by reading this passage in your Bible.
In the culture we live in today, we don’t often put the words “servant” and “leader” together. We tend to have a very lowly view of a servant, and a very high view (sometimes prideful even) of a leader. One of the most important aspects of becoming more like Jesus is learning about two key character traits which do not get celebrated often in our culture: servant leadership and humility. These traits are the embodiment of everything Jesus is about.
Read and reflect on this important description of Jesus written by the Apostle Paul.
Philippians 2:3-11 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambitionor vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; 7 rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Reflect
- Verses 3-5 give us a great picture of how we can live in humility. What does it look like to value others above yourself?
- According to this passage, what did God do as a result of Jesus’ living in humility?
- What do you think holds most people, including yourself, back from pursuing humility?
- Scripture talks about how easy it is to love those who love you. The same is true with humility. It is easier to be humble when the people around you are humble. In what area of your life is it most difficult for you to practice humility, and what is one step you can take to further practice humility in that area?
Act
Humility is the key to bringing unity amongst our diversity. Tomorrow pick one way you can put others’ interests before your own.
Pray
Jesus, thanks for being the perfect example of living a life of humility. It’s not easy to choose humility and I want Your strength to do this well. Amen.