A Life that Pleases God: Humility in the Team
Devotional week 25
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” — Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV)
Working with others can be a blessing, but it is often also a test of character. Most of us have experienced difficult colleagues, unresolved tensions, team conflicts, or working partners who seem to pull in a completely different direction.
That is exactly where the message of Philippians confronts us. It invites us to take an honest look within and recognize what we often try to hide: pride, vanity, a need to be in control, impatience, and the urge to always have the final word.
It is easy to talk about teamwork when everyone agrees with us. But real humility is tested when we are challenged. When our ideas are dismissed. When our efforts go unnoticed. When we feel like we are giving more than we receive.
That is the moment Jesus invites us to follow His example.
“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus...”
— Philippians 2:5 (NIV)
Christ, being in very nature God, did not cling to His rights or status. He chose to serve, even though He was Lord overall. He humbled Himself willingly, though He held all authority. He walked among us with gentleness and grace — never once wrong yet willingly laying aside His rightful glory so we could be reconciled to the Father.
That is the attitude He asks of us — even, and especially, in difficult relationships.
In every awkward meeting, every trying colleague, every moment when we just want to walk away, the call remains: choose humility, serve with patience, and reflect Christ.
Challenge
Think of a situation where collaboration has been difficult — a team member, client, or classmate. Instead of trying to win or control the outcome, ask: “How can I be like Jesus here?” Take one intentional step this week to serve, listen, or forgive. Pray before difficult conversations. Choose the way of the cross over the need to be right.
Prayer
Lord, You’ve placed me in environments where I need to work alongside others and that’s not always easy. Forgive me when pride or frustration takes over. Shape in me the heart of Christ: humble, gracious, patient, and willing to serve. May Your grace be visible in the way I relate to those around me. In Jesus’ name, amen.