December 25: The Humility of God
In the great narrative of redemption, God enters the world not with fanfare and power but in the gentle form of a vulnerable infant. The humility of God, demonstrated in Jesus’ birth, shatters the world’s expectations of authority and influence. When society glorifies power, status, and control, Jesus reveals a kingdom where greatness is manifest in meekness and service. As reflected in the manger scene in Luke 2:6-7, Jesus’ arrival speaks of a Savior who identifies with the lowly, calling us to embrace humility as a pathway to true spiritual authority.Astonishingly, Philippians 2:5-8 invites us to have the same mindset as Christ Jesus, who, being in very nature God, chose to set aside divine privilege. This decision to empty himself, even to the point of death on a cross, is the fullest expression of humility and love. God, who could summon the cosmos with a word, prefers the cries of a newborn in a manger over the opulence of a throne.
This Christmas, let us ponder our grasping for control and desire for recognition. The humility of God beckons us to release our hold on status and to welcome Christ’s paradoxical way of influence—through service, sacrifice, and love. What areas of your life is God inviting you to surrender for His glory?
Biblical Points:
1. The Humble Birth of Christ
Scripture: “And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.” — Luke 2:6-7 (ESV)
Reflection: The imagery of Jesus in a manger is a profound indication of God’s humility. It reminds us that God’s presence is not just in grand places but in the humblest of circumstances. We’re called to recognize God’s work in the simplicity of life and to welcome Him into our everyday contexts.2. The Mindset of Christ
Scripture: “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.” — Philippians 2:5-7 (ESV)
Reflection: Emulating Christ’s mindset means prioritizing others above ourselves, and finding true honor in serving rather than being served. Through humility, we align our hearts with Christ and transform the world around us with His love.3. Exaltation Through Humility
Scripture: “Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name.” — Philippians 2:9 (ESV)
Reflection: Christ’s humility led to His ultimate exaltation. In God’s kingdom, lowering ourselves leads to being lifted in ways that surpass earthly recognition. As we walk in humility, God’s honor becomes our truest reward, aligning us with eternal purposes.Reflection Questions:
1. Why does the humility of God as seen in the birth of Jesus challenge your view of what it means to be great?
2. What areas of your life are tightly controlled, where may God be inviting you to embrace a spirit of surrender?
3. How can you practice serving others in a way that reflects Jesus’ humility during this Christmas season?
Memory Verse:
“Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus…” — Philippians 2:5 (ESV)Closing Encouragement and Prayer:
As you celebrate the birth of our Lord, let the humility of Christ draw you deeper into the mystery of His love—a love that led Him to leave Heaven for a lowly manger. Greatness in God’s kingdom comes through humble surrender and service. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ embolden you to walk in humility and trust, knowing His ways are far above our own.Father, we thank You for the incredible humility of Your Son. Teach us to walk as He walked, loving and serving with a heart like His. Let this Christmas season deepen our dependence on You, trusting in Your eternal wisdom and grace. Amen.
- 3 Replies
Kingdom Builder Praise be the Lord for His love for us. Love made Him send His only Son to take our place in the redemption plan. Hallelujah!
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Verified
Kingdom Pioneer
Amen! Merry Christmas to you sir
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Verified
Kingdom Pioneer
A powerful Christmas lesson- The mind of Christ. All-Powerful owner of the Universe who does not care about being stripped of glory so He can redeem us back to Himself. Now we have unconditional access to throne of grace to find mercy and grace to help in times of need! Glory to God!
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