Humility of Mind

"Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interest of others" (Philippians 2:3-4, NASB).

What does humility mean? Paul encouraged the Philippians to put others before self, instead of seeking ambition and praise for themselves first. He urged them to have "humility of mind." What does that look like?

Jesus gives us the perfect example of humility. He came to serve (Mark 10:44-45). He came to show us how to live on earth in honor to God. In His perfection, He chose mercy and compassion as He loved and healed people who were from different walks of life. He is God, and so He is distinct from the world. And yet, He loves it. Jesus endured in the face of suffering, so we could have a restored relationship and a new life with our Creator.

Looking at our perfect Savior, how can we be humble like Him? Growing in humility may be a process (at least it is for me). That's a reason why we need God, though. No challenge is too tough for Him, and He is there for us out of love. When we mess up in this regard, God is faithful to forgive sin when we confess it (1 John 1:9). He gives believers the Holy Spirit to help us grow (2 Corinthians 3:16-18).

As believers in Christ, we are told that "You are the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14-16). By His strength and power, as we receive God's love and let Him work in us, we can live out humility and be a lighthouse to honor our Savior. We can let God and others be our chief concern, rather than letting personal interest or personal advantage be our main goal in life. A humble mind is driven by a love for God and others.

"He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but 

to do justice, to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God?" 
-Micah 6:8, NASB

Lord, thanks for showing us what humility looks like. Forgive us for any pride that blocks us from considering others before ourselves. Renew our minds, so we can walk humbly with You. Amen.

Photo from dailybibleplan.com.
Study based on the workbook HeartCall: Women Sharing God's Heart (Jaye Martin, 1999).