Unlock the power of serving with humility. Join us in Life Lessons: Following Jesus as we explore how Christ’s humble service can transform your life and community.
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
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Watch the video of this teaching at https://www.celllifechurch.tv/serving-with-humility/ or on our YouTube channel.
Introduction
Welcome back to Life Lessons: Following Jesus. We have been exploring the timeless teachings of Jesus, uncovering their profound relevance in our lives today. In this series, we have discussed loving our neighbor, embracing forgiveness and mercy, and seeking God’s Kingdom. Each of these foundational principles brings us closer to living a Christ-centered life. Today, we take another step on this transformative journey by focusing on the pursuit of serving with humility.
In a world often driven by self-interest and ambition, Jesus calls us to a different path—one marked by humility and service to others. This priority reorients our lives towards spiritual fulfillment and divine purpose. Let’s explore the essence of serving with humility and how it transforms our daily lives.
The Example of Jesus
Let’s start by looking at the example Jesus set for us. Let’s read John 13:3-5.
John 13:3-5
(3) Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; (4) so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. (5) After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
Jesus, despite being the Son of God, chose to serve his disciples by washing their feet, a task typically performed by the lowest servant. This act of humble service teaches us about the profound humility and love Jesus embodies.
Imagine a modern-day leader, such as a CEO, who volunteers alongside their employees in a community service project. This leader, by serving others humbly, fosters a spirit of unity and demonstrates the importance of putting others before oneself. This is what Jesus modeled for us—leadership through humble service.
The Call to Humble Service
The Apostle Paul teaches us more about our call to humility in Philippians 2:3-4, which says:
Philippians 2:3-4
(3) Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, (4) not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
Jesus calls us to serve others selflessly and humbly, putting their needs above our own. This attitude of humility in service reflects Christ’s character and teaches us to prioritize others. When we focus on ourselves or what we can receive from serving others, we give up humility and take on pride and selfishness. There is no room in the Kingdom of God for selfishness.
Consider a community service project where volunteers work tirelessly to help those in need, expecting nothing in return. Their selfless acts of service not only make a significant impact on the community but also bring personal fulfillment and joy, exemplifying the call to serve with humility.
Selfish or prideful acts put all the focus on you and impact the community in a negative way. Our focus and service need to be pointed outward toward our community and the glory given to God.
The Blessings of Humble Service
Jesus explains the blessings of humble service in Matthew 23:11-12, which says:
Matthew 23:11-12
(11) The greatest among you will be your servant. (12) For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.
Serving with humility brings blessings and honor from God. Jesus teaches us that true greatness in the Kingdom of God comes from being a servant. This paradox of humility and exaltation reveals that God honors those who serve others selflessly.
Picture a person who, through consistent humble service, gains the respect and admiration of their community. Despite not seeking recognition, their acts of service lead to unexpected blessings and opportunities, illustrating how God rewards those who serve with humility.
Today’s Life Lesson: Embracing Humble Service
Today’s life lesson is about embracing humble service. Let’s read 1 Peter 4:10-11.
1 Peter 4:10-11
(10) Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms. (11) If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
Embracing humble service in our daily lives means using our gifts and talents to serve others and glorify God. This involves practical steps such as volunteering, helping a neighbor, or supporting a friend in need. When we serve with humility, we reflect Christ’s love and grace to those around us.
Imagine a teacher who stays after school to help struggling students. This act of humble service not only aids the students but also demonstrates the teacher’s commitment to their well-being, reflecting the love and compassion of Christ. By serving humbly, we open ourselves to personal growth and spiritual fulfillment.
Conclusion
Seeking God’s Kingdom, loving our neighbor, embracing forgiveness and mercy, and serving with humility reshapes our priorities and transforms our lives. Let’s read Matthew 6:25-27:
Matthew 6:25-27
(25) "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? (26) Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? (27) Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?
Jesus reassures us that we are deeply valued and cared for by God. By seeking His Kingdom first and serving others with humility, we place our trust in His perfect provision and timing. As we align ourselves with His divine purpose, we experience the peace and fulfillment that comes from living in His will. This commitment not only transforms us but also impacts those around us, drawing them closer to the love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness of God through Jesus Christ.
Thank you for joining us for this series Life Lessons: Following Jesus. We encourage you to go back and review any topics you missed.
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