Great Humility

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.

Philippians 2:3-4

HUMILITY IS VALUED. Just ask any popular athlete. We highly esteem those who are great and who don’t feel as if they have to tell us they’re great, but we tend to dislike those who are great and who want to let everyone around them know it. Have you ever rooted against a certain individual because of his arrogance?

But humility has not always been a prized virtue. In Jesus’ day, it was a dishonorable trait of a conquered people. No one wanted to be referred to as having humilitas. It was not a virtue but the trait of a loser. Then Jesus redefined greatness at the cross as He conquered our sin.

What is it to be conquered by Jesus? It is to realize that your life is not your own, and your will is willingly and joyfully surrendered to your Master’s will. It is also to understand that your Master is not obligated to justify or explain what He does. God doesn’t owe us an accounting of His dealings in our lives. He is infinitely wise and good, and we are not.

A conquered Christ follower works to enhance his Master’s name and reputation above his own. Our position is in the background, and our Master is at the forefront. A humble man is actually great in the ways that matter because he uses his power for the gain of others, not for his own personal gain. Will you answer the call to be conquered by Jesus and live a life of humility?

BOTTOM LINE

Ask Jesus to help you lift His name and reputation above your own.

Moment of Strength: Luke 14:7-14