The Power of Humility in Christ in Philippians 2

Philippians 2 teaches what true humility looks like. The Apostle Paul reminds believers that all strength, wisdom, and ability come from God alone. We are not self-made. Every breath, every good work, and every moment of perseverance is powered by Christ working within us. Once that truth takes hold, pride begins to die, and gratitude becomes the way we live.

Imitating Christ’s Humility

Paul urges believers to “do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves” (Philippians 2:3). This call to humility goes beyond words. It means imitating Christ in everything while knowing we can never be Him. We are to serve God because it is right, not because we want something in return.

There was a time when many of us believed the lie that we were our own source of power. In my own past, I once followed new age and new thought beliefs that taught I could “save myself” and that I was “god” without realizing it yet. Looking back, it grieves me to see how deceived I was, but I am also deeply grateful. Through Christ, I now know that all power comes from Him alone. There is only one Savior, and it is not me.

Paul reminds us that Jesus, “being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage” (Philippians 2:6). Even Jesus humbled Himself. If the Son of God chose humility, how could we ever believe we are above it? We are not gods. We are servants, saved by grace, fully dependent on His mercy and power.

When we truly understand this, humility becomes a natural response. We begin to see that our lives are not about us but about glorifying the One who gave us life. If it is good, it came from God. If it is flawed, it came from us.

Living as Servants of God

Paul continues by saying that God “works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose” (Philippians 2:13). Everything good we do is the result of His Spirit working within us. That truth removes pride and brings freedom. We no longer have to strive to prove ourselves. We simply walk in obedience and let God’s strength do the rest.

As believers, we are called to be servants of God, not seekers of self. The world tells us to elevate ourselves, chase validation, and believe that life revolves around us. But Scripture calls us to be the least, to put others first, and to remain humble through it all. Jesus Himself said, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:26–28).

We are sinners who do not deserve mercy, yet through God’s love, we receive it. Knowing that truth should break pride and cultivate awe. Every spiritual realm will bow before Jesus, because He is King over all. Our role is not to glorify ourselves but to keep imitating Christ as much as possible. Eternity is at stake for those who refuse to humble themselves before God.

Stay small before Him. Keep serving with joy. And remember, everything good in your life is a reflection of His power, not yours. All glory belongs to God.

Reflection Prompt: Do you live as though your strength comes from Christ, or are you still trying to take credit for what only He can do?

If you want to take this reflection deeper, In His Voice, I Walk helps you write through the areas where pride still tries to lead. Use it to surrender your heart to God, remind yourself of His grace, and thank Him for the humility that draws you closer to Jesus.