Finding Joy in Humility

We usually don't associate joy and humility. Humility is one of those words that has some very negative connotations for us. We think of it as putting ourselves down, allowing others to take advantage of us or simply believing that we should be treated poorly. We would rather be treated as if we are more important than others and often believe that this is what will bring us joy and happiness. Yet the Paul tells us this:

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross.” (Phil. 2:5–8)

Paul makes it clear that humility is to characterize Christ-followers. In fact, Paul would tell us that we can and will find joy when we choose humility. We are to follow Christ's example and have the same attitude that He had and be willing to serve others as he did.

What do you think about when you hear the word humility? Can you find joy in humility? Whom can you serve today and treat as being better than you?