Daily Devotional for Sunday, May 18, 2025

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Counting Others as Superior: A Devotional on Philippians 2:3

Cultivating Humility in the Footsteps of Christ

The Christian life, as presented in Scripture, is not shaped by ambition or entitlement, but by submission, humility, and sacrificial love. Among the most radical and countercultural exhortations in the New Testament is Paul’s command to the Philippians in Philippians 2:3: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or egotism, but with humility consider others superior to you.”

This short verse strikes at the very root of human pride. The apostle Paul, writing from imprisonment in Rome around 60–61 C.E., exhorted a congregation already known for their faithfulness to preserve unity and joy by adopting a mindset radically different from the world’s values. Philippians 2:3 reveals that spiritual unity and maturity do not arise from personal dominance or recognition, but from self-denial and servant-hearted thinking.

Paul’s words are intentionally absolute: “Do nothing”—no act, no motive, no word—should be driven by selfish ambition (ἐριθεία, eritheia) or egotism (κενοδοξία, kenodoxia). The first term conveys a self-seeking spirit, striving for position or advantage. The second literally means “empty glory,” referring to a vain pursuit of recognition, reputation, or praise. Together, these two forces—ambition and pride—are the root of countless divisions, both within the world and within the community of believers.

But Paul doesn’t stop with a prohibition. He provides a positive command: “with humility consider others superior to you.” The Greek word for humility (ταπεινοφροσύνη, tapeinophrosynē) means lowliness of mind—not self-degradation, but the refusal to elevate oneself. It is a clear-eyed view of one’s own limitations, faults, and dependence on Jehovah’s mercy. The humble person does not pretend to be less than they are, but simply refuses to view themselves as more than they are.

To consider others superior does not mean denying the truth about others’ moral or spiritual state. It means deliberately choosing to esteem others, placing their needs, preferences, and perspectives above one’s own. This attitude fosters harmony, peace, and spiritual maturity. It resists the temptation to compete for honor or recognition, seeking instead to build others up.

Importantly, Philippians 2:3 does not present a conditional or hypothetical rule. It is not a formula that guarantees outward reward or a trouble-free life. As you rightly noted, many principles in Scripture, while generally true, are not promises of immediate consequence. Obeying this verse will not always result in others reciprocating or in being treated well. Many faithful believers have lived humbly, served others selflessly, and yet suffered rejection, betrayal, and injustice.

Nevertheless, Scripture affirms that humility reflects the character of Christ and aligns the believer with the values of Jehovah’s kingdom. Verse 5 begins a majestic hymn describing Christ’s humility: “Keep this mental attitude in you that was also in Christ Jesus.” Though he existed in divine form, Jesus did not cling to his position but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, obedient even to death on a cross (Philippians 2:6–8). His exaltation came after his humiliation. The path to glory runs through the valley of humility.

The application of Philippians 2:3 is both broad and personal. In the home, spouses who live by this verse will prioritize each other’s needs and cultivate lasting peace. Parents will lead with gentleness, not dominance. Children will grow in an atmosphere of grace, not fear. In the congregation, believers who count others as superior will avoid strife, refrain from gossip, and rejoice in the growth and success of others rather than viewing them as rivals. In the workplace, Christians will resist the cutthroat drive for status and instead model integrity and generosity.

Humility also shapes how believers view correction and instruction. The humble person welcomes feedback, acknowledges error, and grows through repentance. The proud cling to being right; the humble desire to be righteous. When humility governs the heart, offenses are fewer, forgiveness flows freely, and love covers a multitude of sins.

This command also confronts the cultural norm of self-promotion. In a world dominated by the pursuit of personal branding, public recognition, and constant validation, Philippians 2:3 calls Christians to a different path. Jesus said, “whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted” (Matthew 23:12). The path of greatness in the kingdom is the path of lowliness.

It’s also essential to remember that true humility does not consist in thinking little of oneself, but in thinking of oneself less. It’s a mindset shaped by daily communion with Jehovah through Scripture and prayer. As the believer immerses himself in the Word of God, the Spirit-inspired teachings reshape thinking, uproot pride, and cultivate grace. Humility is not achieved through self-effort but through surrender to divine instruction and consistent application of truth.

Philippians 2:3 is not a suggestion—it is a command. Yet it is not a burden. It is the pathway to peace, joy, and lasting unity. When believers live this way, they reflect the heart of Christ and the wisdom of God. Though the world may scoff at lowliness, the heavens take notice. As James wrote, “God opposes the proud but gives undeserved kindness to the humble” (James 4:6).

In a community where everyone esteems others more than themselves, the needs of all are met, and the character of Christ is made visible. Such a life may not attract headlines or applause, but it brings the approval of the One who sees in secret and rewards in eternity.

Let every believer examine their heart in light of Philippians 2:3. Let selfish ambition be crucified. Let vain conceit be cast aside. And let the gentle, powerful beauty of humility take root. In doing so, you will become not only more like Christ, but a source of light, peace, and grace in a world desperate for truth.

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About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).