Focus Scripture:

Philippians 2:3

• ESV: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.”
• NIV: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”

Opening Prayer (5 minutes):

Heavenly Father,
We come before You today with grateful hearts for the example of humility we see in Jesus Christ. Help us to lay aside our pride and self-centeredness so that we may live as Christ did—putting others before ourselves. Open our hearts to receive Your Word today and transform us by Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Introduction to the Topic (5-10 minutes):

Today, we will focus on the theme of humility, a key virtue that Jesus modeled during His life on earth. Humility is not thinking less of ourselves but thinking of ourselves less. In a world that often promotes pride and self-exaltation, we are called to embrace humility and serve others. We’ll look at what it means to live out Christlike humility and how we can apply this in our daily interactions.

Bible Verses for Discussion (20 minutes):

Philippians 2:5-8

• ESV: “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. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”
• NIV: “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!”

James 4:10

• ESV: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.”
• NIV: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”

1 Peter 5:5-6

• ESV: “Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’ Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you.”
• NIV: “In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.’ Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”

Discussion Questions (15-20 minutes):

1. How does Christ’s example of humility challenge the way you approach your relationships with others?
2. In what areas of your life do you struggle with pride or selfish ambition? What steps can you take to cultivate humility in these areas?
3. How can we as men encourage one another to grow in humility, both in our homes and in our workplaces?

Life Application (10 minutes):

Humility is central to living a life that honors Christ. It’s easy to be consumed with self-promotion and pride, but God calls us to something greater. This week, focus on putting others first—whether it’s at home, work, or in your community. Ask God to show you opportunities to serve, and take those opportunities to demonstrate humility in your actions and words. Consider how adopting a servant’s heart can transform your relationships and reflect Christ to those around you.

Reflection and Encouragement (5-10 minutes):

Take time to reflect on the humility of Jesus. Though He was God, He chose to take on the form of a servant and ultimately gave His life for us. Let this profound act of love inspire us to humble ourselves and serve others. Remember, God promises to lift up the humble. As we practice humility, we will see God work in our lives in powerful ways.

Closing Verse:

Micah 6:8

• ESV: “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
• NIV: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

Closing Prayer (5 minutes):

Lord,
Thank You for the example of humility that Jesus set for us. Help us to follow His lead and live with a humble heart, putting others before ourselves. As we go from this place, give us the strength and courage to walk in humility and serve others with love and grace. We ask for Your continued guidance and blessing in all that we do. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Takeaway Challenge:

This week, intentionally seek out one way to serve someone in your life without seeking recognition or reward. Whether it’s at work, in your home, or in your community, demonstrate Christlike humility by putting others first and serving with a heart of love.