The death of Nelson Mandela last December was the trigger for a lot of comment on the humility and courage of this man who had a radically different approach to others in power today. Oh that we could see more Mandelas and fewer Mugabes in our politicians today!
Many leaders, in politics, finance, business (and even in churches) fail to conquer the corruption of power which can turn good people into proud and arrogant leaders who have reached a position where they do things because they can – and they sometimes forget to practice humility in the way they deal with others.
CS Lewis summed up the essence of humility when he said:
“Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but rather thinking about yourself less.”
The bible has a lot to say about pride and humility, and Jesus was especially critical of the powerful leaders of the day – seeking to model the servant leadership to his disciples:
Jesus called them together and said, ‘You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, 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: 25-28 [NIV]
Are you in a position of leadership or power? Do you practice humility? Can you resist the temptation to be corrupted by power and habitually proud?
Lord, keep us from pride and help us to practice humility. Forgive us for the times we have failed to model the example of Jesus. Amen
Dave MacLellan
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