Humility and the Mind of Christ

 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 
— Philippians 2:3-4

How are we to strengthen the bonds of Christ within the Church and between other Christians and us? Paul said to do it humbly in Christ. “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” This kind of humility is not natural to us — it flows from sharing in Christ’s love and being transformed by His grace. The example of such humility is the Lord Jesus Christ, who, though He was in the form of God, emptied Himself, taking on the form of a servant and humbling Himself to the point of death on a cross. The mind of Christ flows from His heart and is seen in His willingness to set aside status and rights for the sake of others, motivated by love and obedience to the Father. 

We are to adopt this same posture in our daily lives as we follow Him. We examine the motives for everything we do. Do we seek recognition or serve without concern for the praise of others? Do we listen to other people instead of insisting on our own way? Do we seek others’ good even if it costs the enjoyment of our own good? Are we gentle and patient with other people? Humility causes us to remember the grace we have received in Christ and rely on the Spirit to reconfigure our attitudes. Walking in Christ’s self-giving love glorifies God in our relationships and actions. 

Prayer: Providential Lord, You saved me to reflect Your glory on the earth. However, I do not do it because I am concerned with my recognition while insisting on my own way. Forgive me and give me Your grace to walk humbly as Christ walked. 

Reflection Questions: 

1. In what situations are you most tempted toward selfish ambition or pride? 
2. How can you intentionally “count others more significant than yourself” in your relationships this week? What would it look like if you did this regularly? 

Weekly Memory Verse: Trust the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. — Proverbs 3:5-6