Men of God: Ancient Virtues for Modern Warriorsنموونە

Jesus' Humility

“The Strength to Serve”

Jesus redefined what it means to be strong. In a culture obsessed with power, position, and privilege, He demonstrated that true strength is found in humility and service. The Creator of the universe "emptied himself" to become human according to Philippians 2:7, and then humbled himself further to die as a criminal.

This wasn't weakness—it was strength under perfect control. In the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus demonstrated that humility isn't the absence of power but the controlled, purposeful use of power for the good of others. Matthew 26:52-54 shows Jesus encouraging His disciples by walking in His Father’s will, even though it was going to ultimately cost Him His life. With just a word, Jesus could have had legions of angels at His side but instead he saw us and chose the cross.

As men, we often equate strength with dominance, control, or never showing vulnerability. Jesus offers an upside-down alternative: strength expressed through surrender and sacrificial service. 'Whoever would be great among you must be your servant,' He taught His disciples in Matthew 20:26. A number of years ago, Nancy and I were in a smaller church that had the tradition of 'foot washing' on the Thursday before Easter. Just as Jesus knelt and washed the feet of His disciples, I washed the feet of a friend and he in turn washed my feet. Honestly, I dreaded that night immediately after committing to it. Afterwards, it was one of the most powerful things I have ever done. To walk in Jesus' shoes and kneel before another man and humbly wash his feet was powerful, but for me, seeing someone kneel before me and humbly wash my feet was equally powerful.

Jesus' humility wasn't about thinking less of Himself; it was about thinking of Himself less. He knew exactly who He was—the Son of God—yet we see in John 13:1-5, He washed His disciples' feet. True humility comes from being secure in our identity in Christ, not from insecurity.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does Jesus' example of humility challenge our culture's definition of being a “man” and strength?
2. In what relationships or situations do you find it most difficult to take "the form of a servant"?
3. What might it look like for you to "empty yourself" for the sake of others this week?

Next Step:

• Ask a family member or close friend: "How could I better serve and support you?"

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