Humility: Jesus, the Ultimate Example

Read the Bible in One Year: OT Joshua 16-18, NT Luke 2:1-24

Luke 2:6-7 – While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

Jesus is the ultimate example of humility.

The gospel writer Luke describes in detail the situations surrounding the birth of Jesus. One of the striking things about Luke’s narrative about Jesus birth itself, is how simple it is in contrast to how great the events are. The Bible tells us that Mary brought forth her first born Son and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths and laid Him in a manger (a feeding trough for animals). Despite being the Son of God, Jesus willingly entered the world in a lowly and humble manner, identifying with human condition.

There was no room in the inn. The birth of Jesus, the Son of God, happened in a public place, with other travelers and residents. “Men were trafficking, and little children playing, and women gossiping beside the well – and lo! The kingdom of heaven was among them.” (Morrison). “That there was no room in the inn was symbolic of what was to happen to Jesus. The only place where there was room for him was on a cross.” (Barclay)

Jesus life and ministry were marked by selfless service to others. He declares that He came not to be served, but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many (Matthew 20:28). Jesus washed His disciples’ feet (John 13:1-17), showing humility by performing a task usually reserved for servants. In humility and obedience, Jesus submitted to His Father in the Garden of Gethsemane (Luke 22:42). Philippians 2:5-8 provides a profound evidence of Jesus’ humility reminding us how He voluntarily emptied Himself of His divine privileges, choosing to take on human form and serve humanity. Jesus’ humility serves as an example for us to follow.

Six ways we can practice humility:

1. Cultivating a servant’s heart by focusing on the needs and well-being of others. This  involves acts of kindness, going the extra mile, and looking for opportunities to support and uplift others without expecting anything in return.
2. Practicing active listening and empathy by valuing and considering others above ourselves, seeking to understand their perspectives, and empathizing with their feelings and experiences.
3. Choosing humility in conflicts by seeking resolution over insisting on winning or proving a point. This sometimes means setting aside pride, ego, and the need to be right and being open to feedback, admitting mistakes, and being willing to reconcile and forgive.
4. Recognizing and valuing the contributions of others by not seeking personal recognition or self-promotion. It involves celebrating the achievements of others and giving credit where it is due, acknowledging the strengths and accomplishments of others.
5. Responding with grace, love and patience involves controlling anger, showing forgiveness, extending mercy, and being slow to take offense.
6. Practicing self-reflection and self-awareness by regularly examining our motives, attitudes. Asking the Lord to show us areas of pride and asking Him to help us to consciously choose humility in our thoughts, words, and deeds.

Cultivating humility is a lifelong journey that requires constant effort and relying on God’s grace alone.

Ponder

1. How does Jesus’ humble birth challenge my own expectations of greatness and significance in life?
2. In what ways can I actively cultivate a servant’s heart and prioritize the needs of others above my own?
3. How do I handle conflicts and disagreements? Do I prioritize humility and reconciliation, or do I tend to hold onto pride and the need to be right?

Scripture Writing: Philippians 2:5-8

Song – Servant King

For more daily devotions like this – At the Potter’s Wheel (Kindle)