Redefining Strength: Walking the Humble Path

Redefining Strength: Walking the Humble Path

As we go through our daily routines, it's easy to get caught up in the world's expectations of what strength and success look like. But true character often calls us to a much quieter, more humble path.

Scripture

Matthew 20:20-28 (CEB)

Request from James and John’s mother

20 Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons came to Jesus along with her sons. Bowing before him, she asked a favor of him.

21 “What do you want?” he asked. She responded, “Say that these two sons of mine will sit, one on your right hand and one on your left, in your kingdom.”

22 Jesus replied, “You don’t know what you’re asking! Can you drink from the cup that I’m about to drink from?” They said to him, “We can.”

23 He said to them, “You will drink from my cup, but to sit at my right or left hand isn’t mine to give. It belongs to those for whom my Father prepared it.”

24 Now when the other ten disciples heard about this, they became angry with the two brothers. 25 But Jesus called them over and said, “You know that those who rule the Gentiles show off their authority over them and their high-ranking officials order them around. 26 But that’s not the way it will be with you. Whoever wants to be great among you will be your servant. 27 Whoever wants to be first among you will be your slave— 28 just as the Human One didn’t come to be served but rather to serve and to give his life to liberate many people.”

Reflection

Over my morning coffee, I found myself thinking about modern expectations of manhood. Why do so many feel the need to command respect through physical strength, wealth, social circles, or the accumulation of weapons? Does that kind of posturing ever build genuine friendship, or does it only alienate us and attract people looking for favors?

Connection to Today

Think about Jesus. As the Son of the Living God, He could have commanded legions of angels to enforce His will. Instead, He humbled Himself completely, taking the form of a servant. Imagine the Creator of the universe washing the feet of His disciples. He showed unwavering kindness to everyone He met, across every social and cultural divide.

If we modeled our lives after His example, what a difference we could make:

  • In our marriages: Honor your spouse. Having a partner is a precious gift, and looking for daily ways to help each other turns life from a burden into a joy.
  • In our work: If you are an employer, treat your employees with genuine kindness, and you will earn authentic respect rather than forced obedience.
  • In our resources: Instead of hoarding possessions, let us share our abundance with those in genuine need (something I continually remind myself of!).

In Closing

Lately, I’ve been drawn to Quaker traditions, which feel remarkably close to the fellowship of the early church described in the book of Acts. Quakers believe the Holy Spirit actively teaches and guides us. Since the Father, Jesus, and the Spirit are inseparable, Christ remains our ultimate teacher.

Inspired by this, I’ve been trying to start an unprogrammed Quaker meeting right here on our block. I created business cards introducing myself, explaining the purpose of the gathering, and providing my contact info. On the back, I included a QR code linking to Quaker.org so neighbors can learn more about our beliefs, alongside a QR code pointing back to this blog (keepthefaith-wayne.blogspot.com).

Whether anyone shows interest is entirely in God’s hands—I am simply planting the seed.

P.S. Lately, I’ve also been learning about the ways of Indigenous peoples and how they view the world—believing that all things are living, as though they are relatives, and that everything is a gift from the Creator meant to be shared rather than hoarded or just taken. Learning more about their perspective has given me a newfound, deeper respect for all the incredible gifts Father God has blessed us with.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for Your profound example of humility and love. Help us to lead not with pride, but with servant hearts in our homes, our workplaces, and our neighborhoods. Guide our steps and open doors where fellowship can grow. Amen.

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