“For by grace given me I say to everyone of you; do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgement, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.” Romans 12:3
Humility is often discussed among Christians but many struggle to be of a humble disposition. C.S. Lewis said ‘’True humility is not thinking less of yourself, it is thinking of yourself less’’. Dwelling too much on one’s self is directly opposed to the goals of humility. The greatest example of humility is seen in the life or our Lord Jesus. In Mark10:45 it is written ‘’For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many’’. He humbled Himself to serve us. According to the world’s view it is better to be masters than to be servants. But as followers of the Lord Jesus we are to be humble.
We recall the story of James and John in Mark 10:32-45 how they approached Jesus with a request. They wanted to know if the Lord would allow them to sit either side of Him in His Kingdom. What did this request reveal? It revealed a selfish and personal ambition to be rulers with Jesus in His Kingdom. The Lord was gracious to them and did not rebuke them but explained their lack of understanding in their request. Their request was wrong because they wanted the Lord to fit into their plans instead of how they could fit into His. The Lord had just finished telling them of His final and detailed prediction of His trial, suffering, death and resurrection. This was the third time that He predicted His death. The second time He predicted His death an argument ensued as to who was the greatest. The Lord replied ‘’Whoever wants to be first shall be last of all and servant of all.”
James and John had selective hearing. His words did not fit with their dreams and what they would realize when they reached Jerusalem. They expected to be given positions of power, prestige and authority. So their request was inappropriate and insensitive. But were the other disciples any different? No. They also wanted places of honour so they felt cheated.
Humility is one important virtue we should all have. We should possess it in a way that glorifies God. We should do nothing out of pride or to get the praise of men. Neither should we look to our own interests but to the interests of others first. It is good for us to put on the mind of Christ. In light of these truths how can we best serve one another for God’s glory?
Article by: Mike Parsons