Devotional: Leading with Grace – The Power of Humility Over Pride
Scripture Reading:
“Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” – Matthew 23:12 (ESV)
Reflection:
In a world that often celebrates ambition, achievement, and dominance, the concept of humility can seem counterintuitive, if not entirely misplaced. Yet, throughout scripture, we see a different narrative—one that reveals humility as a cornerstone of true leadership.
Jesus modeled this beautifully during His time on earth. He was the Son of God, yet He washed the feet of His disciples, demonstrating that the highest calling in leadership is to serve others (John 13:1-17). He showed that grace flows from a heart that prioritizes others over self, and in this grace, we find the essence of effective leadership.
When we lead with humility, we showcase an attitude that acknowledges our limitations and recognizes the gifts and contributions of those around us. This leads to a culture of collaboration and respect, where individuals feel valued and empowered. Conversely, pride often isolates us, blurring our vision with a false sense of superiority. It cuts us off from the wisdom of others and eventually fosters an environment of fear and resentment.
Contemplation:
Take a moment to reflect on your own leadership journey—whether in your workplace, home, or community. Ask yourself:
- In what ways can I invite humility into my leadership style?
- Do I listen to and acknowledge the ideas of those around me?
- Am I more focused on my accomplishments than on serving those I lead?
As we ponder these questions, we must remember that humility does not mean thinking less of ourselves; it means thinking of ourselves less. C.S. Lewis beautifully encapsulates this when he wrote, “True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.”
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the ultimate example of humility that You demonstrated through Jesus. Help me to embrace a spirit of humility in my leadership. Teach me to listen and serve rather than assert and dominate. May my actions reflect Your grace, and may I always recognize the worth of those around me. As I lead, grant me the wisdom to lift others up and create an environment where Your love can flourish. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Action Step:
This week, commit to one act of humility in your leadership role. It could be as simple as soliciting feedback from your team or publicly acknowledging the contributions of others. Let your leadership be a reflection of grace and serve as a reminder that true power lies in humility.
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