Weekday Devotionals - Seth
"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 2:3-4 (NIV)
This past Sunday, Pastor Pete reminded us of Jesus’ incredible humility—the kind of humility that led Him from the manger to the cross. As I reflect on His example, I’m struck by how far I still have to go in embracing a truly humble life.
For much of my early career, I measured success by achievement. I poured myself into climbing the ladder in the banking and mortgage industries, chasing status and financial milestones. Even after surrendering my life to Christ, those old patterns didn’t vanish overnight. I still wrestled with ambition and a desire for recognition.
When I transitioned to ministry, leaving behind a successful career, I thought I understood humility. But I’ve realized how often I still struggle to live it out. Leading in ministry, like leading in any area of life, brings constant opportunities to lay down personal desires and focus on what truly matters—serving others and glorifying God.
And yet, I don’t always get it right (perhaps I rarely do). Sometimes I still catch myself craving affirmation or struggling to let go of control. It’s humbling to admit how hard it can be to truly embrace a Christ-like posture of humility, especially in a culture that celebrates achievement and self-promotion.
What encourages me is that Jesus knows our struggles. He doesn’t demand perfection but invites us to walk with Him, one step at a time. In Philippians 2:5-8, we see the depth of His humility—He emptied Himself, took on human form, and gave His life for us. He didn’t cling to status, though He was fully entitled to it.
When I reflect on His example, I’m reminded that humility isn’t about thinking less of myself but about thinking of myself less. It’s not about striving harder but surrendering more—trusting that God can work through my imperfections to reflect His love.
Where do you see the tension between humility and ambition in your life? How can you take small steps to reflect Jesus’ humility this week?
- Seth
This past Sunday, Pastor Pete reminded us of Jesus’ incredible humility—the kind of humility that led Him from the manger to the cross. As I reflect on His example, I’m struck by how far I still have to go in embracing a truly humble life.
For much of my early career, I measured success by achievement. I poured myself into climbing the ladder in the banking and mortgage industries, chasing status and financial milestones. Even after surrendering my life to Christ, those old patterns didn’t vanish overnight. I still wrestled with ambition and a desire for recognition.
When I transitioned to ministry, leaving behind a successful career, I thought I understood humility. But I’ve realized how often I still struggle to live it out. Leading in ministry, like leading in any area of life, brings constant opportunities to lay down personal desires and focus on what truly matters—serving others and glorifying God.
And yet, I don’t always get it right (perhaps I rarely do). Sometimes I still catch myself craving affirmation or struggling to let go of control. It’s humbling to admit how hard it can be to truly embrace a Christ-like posture of humility, especially in a culture that celebrates achievement and self-promotion.
What encourages me is that Jesus knows our struggles. He doesn’t demand perfection but invites us to walk with Him, one step at a time. In Philippians 2:5-8, we see the depth of His humility—He emptied Himself, took on human form, and gave His life for us. He didn’t cling to status, though He was fully entitled to it.
When I reflect on His example, I’m reminded that humility isn’t about thinking less of myself but about thinking of myself less. It’s not about striving harder but surrendering more—trusting that God can work through my imperfections to reflect His love.
Where do you see the tension between humility and ambition in your life? How can you take small steps to reflect Jesus’ humility this week?
- Seth
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