Read: Philippians 2:3
Have you ever done something wrong and instantly knew it? That sinking feeling hits, and you realize you have a choice to make. You can either double down, let the situation fester, and watch the tension grow—or you can swallow your pride, admit your mistake, and apologize. Let’s be honest: neither option feels great in the moment, but one leads to healing, while the other only creates more damage. The discomfort of owning up to your fault is momentary, but the benefits of reconciliation can last for years.
Conflict thrives in the soil of pride, where selfish ambition and the need to be right take priority over the relationship itself. But Scripture calls us to a different standard. In Philippians 2, Paul urges us to set aside selfish ambition and vain conceit, choosing instead to approach others with humility. Humility isn’t weakness; it’s the strength to value someone else’s needs above your own, even when it’s hard. And we’re not left without an example—Jesus Himself demonstrated perfect humility, giving up His heavenly privileges to serve and save us.
Humility in conflict doesn’t guarantee a perfect resolution, but it changes the dynamic. It opens the door for grace, understanding, and restoration. When we choose humility, we invite God to work in our relationships in ways that our pride would block. Imagine how a strained relationship in your life might be transformed if humility took the lead. The question isn’t whether humility is easy—it’s whether it’s worth it. Spoiler alert: it always is.
Reflection Questions:
- How might pride be fueling conflict in your relationships?
- What would humility look like in your interactions this week?
- How can Jesus’ example of humility inspire you to approach conflict differently?