Precious Moments That Count For EternityVoorbeeld

Redefining Humility

There are several scriptures that teach us to be humble. God Himself gave us the best example of humility (Matthew 11:29; Philippians 2:4-6). The book of Proverbs talks about the benefits of being humble and also the effects in case we are not. I am confident that all who know God would fare well on this count.
However, Philippians 2:3b tells us to value everybody else above ourselves. Now that is raising the bar a few notches higher. The verse spoke to me in different ways. Was I behaving in the same manner when interacting with a CEO, as compared to a pizza or milk delivery person? Was my humility restricted to some important people or was I really able to esteem every person better than myself?
How many times have I taken someone’s time for granted and made them wait? Every time I did this, it was effectively sending a message that I was valuing my time as more important than theirs. I also realized that I would get upset when security staff - in any building or mall or office - would ask questions, which I thought had obvious answers, and, hence, were a waste of my time. So, while this person was only doing his or her job, my ego was driving me to respond arrogantly and behave in an ungodly manner. As I chewed on this verse, it started the process of an ‘inside out’ transformation. God’s Word will help me deal with people across all walks of life in the same way that He would deal with them.

Prayer
Dear Jesus, Your Word asks us to esteem others higher than ourselves. We will not be able to do this in our own strength; but with Your Holy Spirit in us, we can do it. Thank You Lord. Amen.