How can we emulate Jesus' humility shown in Matthew 3:13? The Scene at the Jordan “Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John.” – Matthew 3:13 What We See in Jesus’ Humility •He travels nearly 60 miles from Nazareth’s hills to the Jordan valley—choosing inconvenience over comfort. •He seeks baptism, a rite linked with repentance, though He is sinless (2 Corinthians 5:21). •He submits to John’s ministry, honoring a lesser-known servant rather than demanding center stage. •He models perfect obedience to the Father’s plan, setting the tone for His entire earthly mission (Philippians 2:5-8). Why Humility Matters for Us •God “opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). •Humility makes room for service: “the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve” (Matthew 20:28). •It fosters unity: “Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another” (1 Peter 5:5). Practical Ways to Emulate Jesus’ Humility 1.Choose the low place first. •Look for unnoticed tasks at home, church, or work and do them without announcement (Luke 17:10). 2.Submit to godly authority. •Respect leaders and mentors God raises up, even when you possess greater skill or experience (Hebrews 13:17). 3.Identify with the needy. •Spend time with those our culture overlooks; Jesus’ baptism aligned Him with sinners, so we align ourselves with the marginalized (Matthew 25:40). 4.Obey promptly, even when the command seems unnecessary. •Like Jesus’ baptism, some acts of obedience aren’t about personal need but about fulfilling “all righteousness” (Matthew 3:15). 5.Guard your heart from self-promotion. •Celebrate others’ successes; speak well of them behind their backs (Proverbs 27:2). 6.Serve in secret. •Practice giving, praying, and fasting “in secret” so your Father who sees in secret will reward you (Matthew 6:1-6, 17-18). 7.Stay teachable. •Keep an open Bible and an open ear; the moment we stop learning, pride has taken root (Psalm 25:9). 8.Keep the cross in view. •Remember the One who “humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross” (Philippians 2:8). Awareness of His sacrifice levels every boast. Living It Out Humility isn’t a feeling; it’s a daily choice to lower ourselves under God’s mighty hand (1 Peter 5:6). By following Jesus’ example at the Jordan—traveling the extra miles, embracing tasks beneath our status, obeying without hesitation—we walk the same humble path that led our Lord from the waters of baptism to the victory of resurrection. |
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