Imitating Christ’s Humility

A couple of days ago, I was reading Philippians Chapter 2 as part of my daily scripture reading. Today I would like to share my thoughts on verses 1 – 5. This section is entitled “Imitating Christ’s Humility.” Humility, or serving others, is very important to me at this stage of my walk with Jesus. I want to do everything I can to emulate Jesus in every area of my life. For your reference, here are verses 1 - 5 from the English Standard Version of the bible. 1 So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, 2 complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. 3 Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus.

Many people, including Christians, live only to make a good impression on others or to please themselves; but “rivalry or conceit” brings discord. The apostle Paul was stressing spiritual unity and asks us to love one another and be one in spirit and purpose. When we work together, caring for the problems of others, we demonstrate Christ’s example of putting others’ first, and we experience unity. We shouldn’t be so concerned about making a good impression or meeting our own needs which strains relationships in God’s family.

Being humble involves having a true perspective about ourselves as referenced in Romans 12:3. Which simply states, we should not think of ourselves too highly but use sound judgment in accordance to the measure of faith God has given us. We shouldn’t put ourselves down either. We are sinners, saved by God’s grace and have great worth in God’s kingdom. We should lay aside selfishness and treat others with respect and common courtesy. When we consider others’ interest as more important than our own, this links us with Jesus, who was a true example of humility.

Jesus Christ was humble, willing to give up his rights in order to obey God and serve people. We should have a servant’s attitude, serving out of love for God and for others, not out of fear or guilt. Remember, you can choose your attitude. You can approach life expecting to be served, or you can look for ways to serve others. So this Christmas season, actively seek new ways to serve others in order to imitate Jesus’ willingness to serve and to place others' interests ahead of his.

Robert Dodson
December 7, 2010