“In humility, value others above yourselves.” (Philippians 2:3, NIV)

Reflection:
Humility is countercultural in the world that esteems self-promotion. God esteems the denial of self. To value others above ourselves requires a posture of the heart that views others through the lens of God’s love. It means seeing their worth and potential, not just their flaws or limitations.

Paul radically challenged us in Philippians 2:3, when he said: do nothing out of selfish ambition. The phrase “selfish ambition” portrays a toxic and self-centred drive to outshine others, often at their expense. Humility, on the other hand, redirects ambition to serve a higher purpose—God’s glory and the good of others. As Andrew Murray said, “Humility is the only soil in which the graces root.”

Humility does not diminish us in any way. Instead, it aligns us with the blueprint of God for operations in His kingdom. The practice of humility positions us to prefer and lift others. Humility build bridges and create an environment for unity, whereas pride foments conflict. Jesus demonstrated what humility looks like in practice when He stooped to wash His disciples’ feet (John 13:12–15). The King of kings served His followers and taught us that greatness comes from meeting the needs of others.

Reflect on your relationships. Are they marked by humility or pride? Do you listen more than you speak? Do you encourage others or seek recognition? Humility is life-changing. It mends relationships, strengthens communities, and reveals the heart of Christ to a watching world.

Charles Spurgeon wrote, “Humility is to make a right estimate of one’s self.” This self-awareness fosters dependence on God and compassion for others. When we value others as God does, we echo Christ’s humility, creating spaces for His love to thrive.

Challenge, Prayer, and Further Reading:
Pray for a heart that values others above self. Ask God to deliver you from pride and selfish ambition. Affirm how valuable someone else is today, whether through encouraging words, an act of kindness, or a sacrifice of your time. Reflect on John 13:12–15 and Romans 12:10. these passages illuminate humility in action. Meditate also on 1 Peter 5:6, which reminds us that God exalts the humble in His perfect time.

In humility, we reflect Christ and allow His grace to flow through us to others.