“Do nothing out of selfish
ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not
looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the
others.” Philippians 2:3-4
As believers in Christ
we are to exhibit humility. What is
humility? It is having a proper
estimation of oneself, being well aware of both one’s strengths and one’s weaknesses. We rarely have much of a problem knowing what
our strengths are, but it is in knowing our weaknesses and flaws that humility
lies.
Pride
has a competitive edge by nature. We
strive to be better than others, to rise to the top of the class. In Christ we are to learn to do just the
opposite. That fights against our
natural tendency until we submit to the Holy Spirit and allow spiritual surgery
to take place. Humility is easier for
some, for they seem to have a more submissive spirit. Others struggle with it mightily. Being concerned for the needs and interests
of others doesn’t come naturally for many folks; however, it is an essential
ingredient in being humble. False
modesty has no place in this. It only
comes across as cheap and phony. We are
to encourage and edify or build up others, promote harmony rather than conflict
and be a servant to all. That is the
essence of a servant’s heart, placing others above yourself.
Scripture
is very clear that God will meet all our
needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19). That being the case, we shouldn’t have to
strive for anything for the Lord has our needs covered. That should free us up to meet the needs of
others as God’s vehicle of blessing. If
we are striving for anything in this life it should be to be a reflection of
Christ’s humility, for He humbled Himself
by becoming obedient unto death (Philippians 2:8). Submit to the will of God for your life each
day. Until next time, walk with the King
and be a blessing!
Resource: The IVP New Testament Commentary Series; Philippians
- The Philippians' Affairs: Exhortation to Steadfastness and Unity (1:27-2:18);
The Appeal Renewed: Unity Through Humility (2:1-4) … The Content of the Appeal
(2:3-4).
Resource:
Reformation Study Bible; Philippians 2:3.
