How to Live in Humility and Service: Living Like Jesus

Introduction to Live in Humility and Service

In our last post, “Practicing Forgiveness: Living Like Jesus,” we explored how forgiveness is a powerful path to emotional freedom, healing, and peace. Forgiveness is where healing begins, but living like Jesus doesn’t stop there. The next step on this journey is humility and service—two qualities that go hand-in-hand and reflect the heart of Christ.

Jesus showed us through His life that true greatness is found not in position or power, but in serving others with a humble heart. He demonstrated that forgiveness is not just about letting go of past hurts, but also about showing up with a humble spirit, ready to serve those around us. So, let’s dive into how walking in humility and service is a natural continuation of forgiveness and a vital part of living like Jesus.

Jesus washing the feet of a disciple, showing humility and service. — Jesus’ humble example—serving others with love and compassion.

What Does It Mean to Live in Humility?

Humility: The Heart of Jesus

Humility is the opposite of pride. It’s about putting others before ourselves, recognizing our dependence on God, and choosing to live without seeking personal glory. Jesus exemplified humility in every aspect of His life—He wasn’t concerned with titles, positions, or worldly recognition.

Philippians 2:3-4: “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.”

Jesus, the Son of God, chose to humble Himself by washing His disciples’ feet (John 13). He didn’t expect service; He modeled it for others. In the same way, we’re called to serve others with humility—putting their needs above our own and seeing the value in everyone.

Imagine you’re at a family gathering, and everyone is enjoying themselves. You notice someone in the corner, sitting alone and looking uncomfortable. A humble heart doesn’t ignore that person—it reaches out, offering companionship or simply a kind word. Humility often calls us to look beyond our own comfort and meet the needs of others.

A person kneeling to help an elderly person with a small task, demonstrating kindness and humility. — A small act of compassion—serving others with humility.

The Call to Serve Like Jesus

Service: The Fruit of Humility

Jesus didn’t just talk about humility; He lived it by serving others. Whether it was healing the sick, feeding the hungry, or offering comfort to those in need, Jesus’ life was marked by a commitment to serve.

Mark 10:45: “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Jesus turned the concept of leadership upside down. Instead of being served, He served others. He showed us that true greatness comes from serving others, not from seeking power or recognition. Service is an expression of love and humility, and it’s a tangible way we can live like Jesus.

A person donating food to a food pantry, handing a bag of groceries to a volunteer. — Small acts of kindness make a big difference—supporting those in need with humility.

Practical Ways to Live in Humility and Service

Serve with a Willing Heart
Serving others isn’t about obligation; it’s about wanting to help. Whether it’s helping a neighbor or volunteering for a cause, service should come from a heart of love and compassion.
Put Others First
Humility is about thinking of others as more important than yourself. Look for opportunities to serve—whether it’s holding the door open, listening to someone in need, or offering help without being asked.
Serve Without Expectation
Jesus didn’t serve with the expectation of being thanked or praised, and neither should we. True service is done without seeking recognition or reward. When we serve selflessly, we reflect the heart of Jesus.

Teenage girl pushing her grandmother in a wheelchair into a doctor's office, showing care and support. — Caring for loved ones with compassion and respect

The Impact of Humility and Service on Our Lives

Serving Others Changes Us

When we serve others with humility, we’re not only meeting their needs but also allowing God to change our hearts. Service humbles us and draws us closer to God’s heart, helping us see people through His eyes.

Luke 22:27: “Who is more important, the one who sits at the table or the one who serves? The one who sits at the table, of course. But not here! For I am among you as one who serves.”

Jesus didn’t just talk about humility and service; He lived it. And by doing so, He showed us that serving others leads to a deeper relationship with God and a greater understanding of His love. As we walk in humility and service, we reflect the character of Christ to the world.

Conclusion to Live in Humility and Service

Walking in humility and service is a natural extension of forgiveness. As we forgive others and let go of past hurts, we begin to walk in a spirit of humility, seeking to serve others just as Jesus did. Humility isn’t about thinking less of ourselves—it’s about thinking of ourselves less and considering the needs of others first.

Let’s follow Jesus’ example by serving others with a humble heart, knowing that our acts of service reflect His love and grace.

Call to Action:

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