I got this from Bible Gateway.com
Person: Humility
READÂ PHILIPPIANS 2:1-11
The main goal for godly leaders-and Christians in general-is to reflect the life of Christ in their own lives. And the character trait that best enables us to do that is humility. After exhorting the Philippians to lay aside their personal interests and focus on the needs of others, Paul tells us how to follow the example of Christ (vv. 5-11). From this beautiful passage we learn three things about our Lord that model for us the essence of true humility.
First, Jesus didn’t selfishly cling to the outer expression of his divinity. Instead, he took the form of a servant. A humble leader doesn’t flaunt his or her position or power. Instead, he or she identifies with the weakest member of the team. Second, Jesus demonstrated humility through obedience to God the Father. A humble leader doesn’t impose his or her will on God, but submits to God’s commands. Third, Jesus waited for his Father to lift him up. A humble leader doesn’t grab for power or position. He or she patiently waits for God to increase his or her influence.
Jesus didn’t come as a king, but as a helpless infant (Luke 2). Although he was perfectly God and perfectly human at the same time (John 1:14), he lived his life as a humble laborer. After he began his ministry, he demonstrated humble service to others in the miracles he performed, as well as in his instruction to his disciples. When the time came for him to die, he submitted to his Father’s divine will (Mark 14:36). And now, seated in power at the right hand of God, he intercedes on our behalf (Acts 5:29-32). As the perfect model for godly leadership, Jesus set the perfect example of humility. Ask God to help you follow Jesus’ example as you seek to demonstrate the kind of humility that will cause others to see Jesus in you.
Humility and Who God Is
Humility has fallen on hard times. Contrary to popular opinion, humility is not a matter of weakness or passivity; from a Biblical point of view, it is disciplined strength and other-centered power. In his earthly life, Christ himself was the perfect exemplar of true humility. Turn to Matthew 11:28-30 for a glimpse at what humility really means.
Humility and Who I Am
“My humility cries out for recognition!” “I’m humble and proud of it!” The problem with the virtue of humility is that as soon as we think we have attained it, we have lost it. How do we avoid this dilemma? Turn to Numbers 12:3 for insight into this crucial Biblical virtue.
Humility and How It Works
How can one who is fabulously successful maintain humility? Solomon, arguably one of the most successful men of all time, tells us how. Read Proverbs 25:27 and reflect on Solomon’s homily on humility.
Humility and What I Do
Moses gives us an excellent picture of how difficult the battle with pride really is. The ancient Israelites struggled continually with their pride. Their example, and an insightful story by Thomas Merton, will help us realize the importance of cultivating humility. Turn to Deuteronomy 8:1-20 for today’s reading.
