Unity through Humility

Philippians 2:3. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves” (The Message uses the phrase “help others to get ahead”). As a long-time student of effective leadership, I understand the impact that a group of people working together can make as compared to the efforts of an individual. We learn this basic principle in grade school through team activities. Later, we observe organizations and nations working together and accomplishing incredible good.

I have also come to understand that unity is indispensable to team effectiveness. This states the obvious, but you need only look at the performance of sports teams loaded with guys concerned mainly about themselves and you see what I mean.

Let me go one step further. I believe that unity is only possible through humility. Scripture says we need to value others highly and put their interests ahead of our own. My pride and ego often get in the way of this – I am quick to think that I have the best plan. But I have learned (over a long time and not without some pain!) that there are many, many other perspectives and experiences that I need to respect. This is not simply an exercise in self-deprecation – rather, I get the benefit of learning from others and I am blessed when I can “help others get ahead.”

One of the coolest things about the bible is that it contains both truth and practical wisdom. I have found this verse to be enormously helpful in my everyday life.