Humility is the Key

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Philippians 2:3 (NIV)

How often do we have to deal with conflict of personalities? If we are honest, at least everyday, I hope I am not the only one. Usually when a conflict arises it is because we are sure we are correct in the situation and the other party is wrong. I know I often need to take a step back and try to look at the circumstances from a different angle. No matter what the situation it can only be truly solved when humility is involved.

Nothing is more comforting, and at times more irritating to me than a room full of woman. It all depends on the amount of humility in the room. How refreshing it is when someone is just honest, not trying to put up a front. We all know the other type, pretending to always have everything in order. All they care to talk about is the wonderful things going on in their lives, conveniently leaving out the daily struggles every human being faces.

I know when I come in contact with this type I can't help but want to hide all my struggles, so I don't look so bad and just in case they think they are better than me, I'll prove them wrong. This is nothing short of my selfish ambition and prideful heart; Paul says here that we are to consider others better than ourselves, to understand we both need God's grace and to look to them in love with a servant's heart. If I could get off my high horse and humble myself, it could possibly be contagious, they may have struggles building up so thick inside of them and maybe all they need is a true friend to listen. I know when I am around someone who is able to be vulnerable instead of prideful, it makes me step down and spill out all my imperfections and struggles. There lies love and encouragement rather than envy and arrogance.

Our great God, our savior, Jesus Christ, who has not one imperfection, humbled himself more than any of us ever could. He came to earth as a lowly human and died a horrible death for us. He is the ultimate example of a humble servant.

Father, Help me to be a humble servant today, please take my pride away and help me to follow your amazing example of love and sacrifice.

Sarah Hostetler