Dr. Stanley explores the pattern for humility we see in the life of Jesus—who lived and walked as a servant. The night before His crucifixion, He prayed three times for God's will to be done. Humbling ourselves means submitting to our heavenly Father as the sovereign ruler of our lives and walking in obedience to His will.
Sermon Outline
True humility may seem unattainable, but Scripture provides a clear pattern to follow. If you long to “empty yourself,” listen closely today as Dr. Stanley explains the importance of humility in our life and details the example Jesus set for us.
Key Passage: Philippians 2:1-11
Supporting Passages: Micah 6:8; Matthew 11:28-30; John 10:18; John 13:3-5; Colossians 1:15-16
You probably know what you want out of your Christian life—God’s provision, protection, acceptance, and love, for instance. But have you ever asked yourself what God wants? It’s likely more than what you could ever imagine for yourself.
► “Humility does not mean weakness. Jesus was certainly a humble man.”
Humility …
Isn’t very appealing to a society interested in things like power, contentment, and prosperity.
Is essential to our Christian life and the key to God’s blessing.
Is defined in Philippians 2:1-11, which shows a pattern for humility, as demonstrated by Jesus.
Is a lowliness of mind that does not seek to exalt the self.
Is ours when we have the correct view of ourselves.
Involves recognizing that God is our source.
Means living in a manner that is not boastful or arrogant.
Humility requires self-evaluation that is …
1. Honest
We will see some things we like in ourselves—and some we do not.
We should desire to see ourselves as God sees us.
2. Courageous
Even when we don’t like what we see, we must be willing to continue developing.
We also need to recognize that God is the only One who can change us.
God requires us to pursue justice, kindness, and humility (Mic. 6:8).
Humility was evident in Jesus’ life.
Paul says we are to have the attitude in ourselves that was in Christ (Phil. 2:5).
To submit to God’s will, Jesus—though equal with God—emptied Himself of divine power, glory, and majesty and became an obedient bondservant (vv. 6-8).
Jesus faced ridicule. We might encounter it as well, but God will deal with those who mock Christian humility.
When we humble ourselves, God will exalt us (vv. 9-11).
► “Humility is the heart of Christian life: the prerequisite for salvation, answered prayer, and blessings.”
Humility was evident in Jesus’ teachings.
He tells us to come to Him and accept His yoke, which is light (Matt. 11:28-30).
Jesus, King of Kings, washed the feet of His disciples (John 13:3-5).
Like our Savior, we must be willing to obey God and serve others, no matter what that requires.
Humility is ultimately about relinquishing our will and surrendering to God’s.
After Watching
Have there been moments in your life when you acted out of pride rather than humility? What did you learn from those experiences?
Two of the most effective tools for achieving humility are thanking God and confessing our sins to Him regularly. This month, set aside a few minutes in your quiet time to do both, and see what changes take place.
