There is this funny misconception about humility: Many think that people who are humble think less of themselves. Meaning that even if they are really good at something, they have to act like they’re not good at it at all. But in actuality, people who think less of themselves are often the people who are most prideful. Because even though it’s in non-conceited way, they’re still thinking of themselves. They’re thinking about how bad they are at _____, how they aren’t as _____ as their best friend, or whatever it is. The point is they’re still thinking of themselves. Pride is, simply, self-absorption. But truly humble people are those who think of themselves… less. Instead of thinking of themselves, they think of what they can do for their friends, families, or the stranger passing by. Jesus is the ultimate example of not thinking of ourselves and thinking of others. Check out Philippians 2:1-11 in the Message:
If you’ve gotten anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care— then do me a favor: Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends. Don’t push your way to the front; don’t sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don’t be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.
Think of yourselves the way Christ Jesus thought of himself. He had equal status with God but didn’t think so much of himself that he had to cling to the advantages of that status no matter what. Not at all. When the time came, he set aside the privileges of deity and took on the status of a slave, became human! Having become human, he stayed human. It was an incredibly humbling process. He didn’t claim special privileges. Instead, he lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death—and the worst kind of death at that—a crucifixion.
Because of that obedience, God lifted him high and honored him far beyond anyone or anything, ever, so that all created beings in heaven and on earth—even those long ago dead and buried—will bow in worship before this Jesus Christ, and call out in praise that he is the Master of all, to the glorious honor of God the Father.
