Embracing Humility
OPENING PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, as we begin our devotional journey with You this week, open our hearts and minds to understand the depth of Your humility. Guide us through Your Word and help us to embody the humility of Jesus in our daily lives. Amen.
"You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross."
REFLECT:
In this passage, Paul calls us to adopt the mindset of Christ, emphasizing humility and selflessness. Jesus, though fully divine, chose to relinquish His divine privileges and take on human form. This act of humility is unparalleled; He became a servant and obeyed God to the point of dying a humiliating death on the cross.
The historical context here is crucial. The Roman world valued power and status, yet Jesus subverted these values by embracing humility and servitude. His life and death were countercultural, challenging the norms of His time and ours. Jesus' humility wasn't just an attitude but a series of deliberate actions that demonstrated His love and obedience to God.
For us, this means that humility isn't merely a feeling but a lifestyle. It involves putting others before ourselves, serving without seeking recognition, and obeying God even when it's difficult. Reflect on areas in your life where pride might be hindering your relationships or your walk with God. How can you adopt the mindset of Christ in these areas?
APPLY:
Can you identify one area in your life where you can practice humility? It could be at work, in your family, or in your community. Do something today that puts someone else's needs before your own, reflecting the humility of Christ.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will be humble like Jesus in a divided world.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your perfect example of humility. Help me to follow in Your footsteps, putting others before myself and serving with a humble heart. May Your Spirit guide me in this journey, transforming me to be more like You each day. Amen.