Lead Like Christ - Week 5 - Humility

Defining Humility

Richard starts by defining humility, emphasizing that while social media often showcases pride and arrogance, true humility is rarely celebrated. He cites Rick Warren’s quote: “Humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.” This perspective shifts the focus from false modesty, where individuals downplay their abilities, to a genuine self-assessment in relation to God and others.

C.S. Lewis adds to this understanding, suggesting that a truly humble person doesn’t think about humility or themselves at all but instead takes a genuine interest in others.

Biblical Aspects of Humility

The Bible offers extensive insights into humility, which Richard categorizes into three main aspects:

1. Low Esteem: This form of humility places an individual at the bottom of the societal hierarchy. Romans 12:16 encourages believers to live in harmony and associate with the lowly, while Psalm 95:6 calls for worship and bowing down before God, emphasizing that in His presence, humans are on the ground, acknowledging His greatness.

2. Not Demanding Perks: Richard contrasts worldly desires for perks with Jesus’ example. Despite being entitled to the best of everything, Jesus chose a humble path. Philippians 2:5-8 describes how Jesus gave up divine privileges and lived humbly, even to the point of dying on a cross. Jesus’ life exemplifies not demanding special treatment but serving others, as highlighted in Matthew 8:20, where He states, “Foxes have dens… but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.”

3. Occupying God-Given Space: True humility involves recognizing and occupying the space God has created for each individual. Romans 12:3 advises believers to measure themselves honestly by the faith God has given. Psalm 149:4 reveals that the Lord delights in His people and crowns the humble with victory, affirming that God honors those who humbly occupy their designated roles.

Jesus as the Ultimate Example

Richard illustrates Jesus’ humility through the act of washing the disciples’ feet, a task reserved for the lowliest of servants. This powerful gesture, described in John 13:1-17, shows Jesus’ willingness to humble Himself for others, setting a profound example for His followers.

Leadership and Humility

Drawing from the book "Good to Great," Richard introduces the concept of the "window and the mirror." Great leaders attribute success to their team (the window) and take personal responsibility for failures (the mirror). Jesus embodied this leadership style, sending out His disciples to perform miracles and promising they would do even greater things (John 14:12). Ultimately, He took humanity’s failures upon Himself on the cross, offering redemption.

The Significance of Humility

Humility is vital because it aligns believers with God’s will, allowing Him to work through them. David’s story from 1 Samuel 24 exemplifies this, where despite being anointed as the next king, David refrains from killing Saul, respecting God’s timing and authority.

Psalm 25:9 highlights that God leads the humble in doing right and teaches them His way. A humble heart is open to learning from anyone, recognizing that God’s lessons can come from unexpected sources.

The Humility Challenge

Richard challenges the congregation to live out humility, reminding them of the insignificance of human boasting. Proverbs 27:2 advises letting others praise you instead of self-promotion. He underscores this with a photo of Earth from space, illustrating humanity’s smallness in the universe.

Despite this, God’s love remains perfect and unfailing. 2 Peter 3:9 emphasizes God’s patience, wanting everyone to repent. Understanding that every person is a beloved child of God should change how believers interact with others, as Ephesians 4:2 instructs: “Always be humble and gentle… making allowances for each other’s faults because of your love.”

Humility in Practice

Humility drives believers to step back and let God work through them. Richard shares how David, despite being in a position to take Saul’s life, chooses to wait for God’s timing. Psalm 25:9 reinforces that God teaches the humble His way.

Humility also involves stepping down from personal soapboxes and engaging with others as children of God. Winning arguments or proving points pales in comparison to winning hearts for God, one person at a time.

Embracing Humility in Service

Richard concludes by encouraging the congregation to volunteer and serve, finding their God-given space within the church. From greeting at the door to teaching Sunday school, every role is vital. This act of service not only fulfills God’s purpose but also exemplifies humility in action.