We are all God’s children. His greatest vision for us is to come together and love each other. Unfortunately, our pride keeps us from this realization. We show our love for God when we turn from our prideful ways. Coming to terms with the fact that we must not be self-serving is tough. It can be helpful to know that this concept is rooted in a bigger understanding that our humility brings freedom. Just as it is stated above in scripture, we are called to look beyond ourselves and “[be] like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.” In this way we gain freedom. We are not bound by our own trap of “selfish ambition and vain conceit.” Rather we are able to value those around us and God makes a way. Trusting in His provision for us works perfectly when we give our lives to Him and focus our lives on serving those around us.
Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
Philippians 2:1-4 NIV
A simple and fundamental lesson about humility is to be mindful of the words we choose to speak. It is our duty to be thoughtful and intentional. Our words carry weight. A kind word can live with someone forever. Likewise an ill word can be a significant burden. When we humble ourselves we see the power we carry. It may seem like a trivial lesson, but it’s the little adjustments of the heart that compound to make us powerful in Christ.
Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions.
Proverbs 18:2 NIV
Considerations for your planner:
- Take a look at your plans for your day or week. Write down ways you can be humble in your actions to those you are interacting with in the coming days.
- How do you speak to others? Write out the things you hope others say about you and find a way to say them about and to others.
A Story of Being Humbled:
I used to hate Christianity and anyone in it. I wanted nothing to do with it. The years went on and I started having massive anxiety attacks. I would have demonic fears that God would kill me one day in my sleep. This fear led to me being afraid of sleeping at night.
But I know now that the enemy is a liar! I was watching TV at 3am one night and stumbled upon a preaching about how when you give your life to Christ you find peace. I wanted that. It was difficult, but I humbled myself to this concept.
I surrendered my life to Him that night and haven’t turned back. I joined a good Christian fellowship afterwards and now I'm currently the Ladies President and a branch Pastor in my campus. Hallelujah!!
- Eve
Strengthen the Christian Planner Family by sharing your experiences. We'd love to hear a story about God's work in your life. Use the form linked below to submit your story.
