The Leadership ChallengeSample

Challenge 47

PAUL, LEARNING HUMILITY

READ: Philippians 2:1–16

In the 45th reading we considered servant leadership. A critical characteristic of a servant leader is humility, which includes a wise dependence on God and a respect for men and women as created in God’s image. Humility reflects modesty and unpretentiousness, not arrogance and pride. A humble person is not concerned with their own prestige but is focused on others. In our text, Paul describes the classic example of Christ’s humility. His argument centers around the character of Christ, who did not stand on His prerogatives as God but willingly gave up everything to take on the status of a slave. He became human to die on the cross—for us. Since Jesus demonstrated such humility, then as His followers we are called to have the same attitude and to follow His example. We must reflect this humility in every relational role, especially our leadership. True humility goes back to where we started this challenge, knowing God and knowing ourselves in relationship to Him. We are neither self-exalting nor self-abasing but have a realistic view of ourselves as God’s beloved children.

According to our text, how should humility manifest itself in our relationships? How can you demonstrate humility with those you are called to lead?