Listen to this week’s message Joy in the Journey – Week 3 (Watch Here)
Philippians 2:3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.
There are two paths we can walk in life: the path of pride or the path of humility. One says, “Look at me,” the other says, “How can I serve?” One is consumed with being seen, recognized, and elevated. The other is content with faithfully serving others, even if it’s behind the scenes.
But that is very hard even for a follower of Christ.
Paul writes in Philippians 2:3, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit.” Nothing. Not some things. Not even the things we feel justified in doing for our own gain. He puts it plainly, pride has NO place in the life of a Christ-follower.
Selfish ambition and conceit are dangerous. Paul isn’t condemning healthy ambition. Healthy ambition strives for excellence or pursues calling with discipline. Rather, he’s targeting selfish ambition. Selfish ambition is the drive to get ahead at the expense of others, to push our name into the spotlight while leaving others behind in the shadows.
Vain conceit is a close companion. It’s an inflated sense of self-worth, a desire to be admired for who we appear to be, rather than who we truly are. It’s ego wearing a mask of confidence, but behind it is insecurity and a need to be validated.
The danger is this. Both selfish ambition and vain conceit have one focus: self.
They ask: “How does this benefit me?” “How can I be noticed?” “Why am I not getting more credit?”
Left unchecked, this mindset poisons relationships, divides churches, and steals our joy. It whispers lies that say our worth is tied to bettering others, and our success depends on others losing.
So the Spirit through Paul gives us a better way. Paul doesn’t just say “don’t be selfish,” he says, “In humility, value others above yourselves.”
Humility isn’t thinking less of yourself; it’s thinking of yourself less. It’s shifting the focus from me to we, from what I deserve to what I can give. It recognizes the image of God in others and treats them with honor and respect, regardless of status, appearance, or performance.
Humility asks: “How can I lift someone else up?” “What’s best for the team?” “Where can I serve quietly, faithfully?”
In a world that shouts “Promote yourself,” Jesus whispers, “Deny yourself.” And in doing so, He shows us that the way down is the way up. True greatness is found not in status, but in service.
Maybe this little comparison is helpful to see the contrast between being driven by pride versus humility:
| Pride/Ego | Humility/Others |
| Self-centered | Others-centered |
| Driven by comparison | Driven by compassion |
| Demands recognition | Delights in serving |
| Builds walls | Builds bridges |
| Competes | Collaborates |
The proud mindset says, “I need to win.”
The humble mindset says, “Let’s win together.”
The proud heart says, “You owe me.”
The humble heart says, “I’m here for you.”
Jesus, the King of kings, washed feet. He made Himself nothing. And in doing so, He gave us the perfect picture of humility. Paul will go on to say that we should have the same mindset as Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:5).
Humility isn’t weakness — it’s strength submitted to God and poured out for others.
Apply: Today, choose one way to value someone above yourself. It could be listening more than talking, giving credit to a team member, or doing something kind without expecting thanks. Watch what happens. Humility doesn’t just change the atmosphere, it changes you.
Prayer: Father, break the grip of pride in my heart. Teach me to value others the way You value me. Help me to walk in humility, not seeking attention but seeking to serve. Give me the mindset of Christ, gentle, strong, and selfless. May others see You through me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.