Ready:
“Blessed are the humble, for they will inherit the earth.” – Matthieu 5:5
Set:
Among the coaches I work with, two have won multiple state championships. They’re obviously very good at what they do. They have “hall of fame” resumes. But what’s most striking to me about both coaches is this: they are genuinely humble.
“Humility” may not come to mind when we think of “qualities needed to be a successful competitor.” Sports culture is saturated with self-promotion. According to Jesus, however, humility is essential to experiencing the blessings of God—the grace and favor that come with living under His reign as our King. Humility results from having an accurate view of ourselves, including our sins. We’re humbled by the Lord’s love and grace in rescuing us and bringing us into His kingdom.
It's been said that humility is not thinking less of ourselves, but thinking of ourselves less. When we walk humbly with King Jesus, it’s evidenced by qualities like these:
1. We are patient with others. When we’re aware of Jesus’ immense grace in response to our sins and flaws, we’re able to be gracious with the shortcomings of others. Impatience with teammates or athletes we coach is often really about our concern that they’re going to make us look bad if they don’t perform in a certain way. Humility causes us to release this concern and instead patiently walk with others on their journey.
2. We gladly promote others. The joy of living under the loving reign of King Jesus prompts us to no longer worry about self-promotion. We humbly desire to put the focus on Christ because we know the credit belongs to Him, not us. And when our focus is on Christ, we are free to genuinely celebrate the success of others.
3. We operate from a place of peace rather than anxiety. As we understand that Jesus made a way for us to be part of His Kingdom, we’re released from the anxiety that comes with seeking validation through being recognized by others. Instead, we humbly rest in the peace that comes with knowing we belong to Jesus—win or lose, fame or obscurity.
Jesus promises that the humble “will inherit the earth.” As the ruler of all, Jesus has the power to direct all things for His purposes. The whole earth is His. He will provide what He knows we need to live for Him in the present. And in the future when Christ brings in the fullness of His kingdom, all who humbly trust Him will get to live with Him in the new heavens and new earth.
Go:
In which of the qualities of humility do you need the most growth: patience with others, promoting others, or operating from a place of peace?
How does the promise of Jesus’ provision for those who humbly trust Him encourage you in your present situation?
Workout:
Overtime:
"Lord, I’m humbled by Your love and goodness in spite of my sin. Please help me to compete and live for You with genuine humility. I desire to trust Your reign over all things, including my life. Amen.”