“Proper Position”
I am reminded of the words written in the Book of Romans; Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. As human beings we tend to think of ourselves more highly than we ought too. I know many will attempt to argue with this statement thinking of how many people suffer with low self esteem. The problem with low self esteem is Jesus teaches us that we are full of pride and selfishness. My friends we can’t be both!
On Tuesday night one of the men shared a simple definition of humility, “the quality of having a modest view of one’s value or importance.” Unfortunately this is a worldly definition not a biblical definition. Jesus did not have a modest view of Himself, scripture tells us that even though He was God, He gave up His divine privileges and became a slave. Does that sound modest?
Today we read the words of our Savior as He instructs us about being humble.
Luke 14:10-11
“Instead, take the lowest place at the foot of the table. Then when your host sees you, he will come and say, ‘Friend, we have a better place for you!’ Then you will be honored in front of all the other guests. 11 For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
Read this verse again and remember God hates pride but humility is a foundational truth throughout the Bible. Jesus is teaching a simple yet powerful lesson. In this context He is speaking about a wedding or an important dinner. But we can use this principle in many other situations. Whether it is a fancy dinner or simply entering a room we have the choice to take a place of honor and possibly being told to move or take the lowest place with the opportunity to be moved to a better place. One results in embarrassment and the other honor.
Again we read these words; those who exalt themselves will be humbled and those who humble themselves will be exalted. As followers of Jesus we need to study His habits, behavior and character. We are told to be like Him, to have the same mind as Christ Jesus. Jesus did not take a modest position, He took the position of a slave. He did not see Himself as better than others but was willing to serve others in love. We see Jesus loving and serving the lepers, prostitutes, demon possessed, fisherman, the rich man, Nicodemus a religious leader and anyone else willing to come to Him. Jesus demonstrated the love of His Father, He died for the sins of the world. Therefore Jesus also loved and served those who mocked, hated and killed Him!
Who are you willing to serve?
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