When Humility Flows in Both Directions
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they came, bringing to Him a paralytic, carried by four men. And being unable to get to Him because of the crowd, they removed the roof above Him; and when they had dug an opening, they let down the pallet on which the paralytic was lying. And Jesus, seeing their faith, said to the paralytic, “My son, your sins are forgiven.” – Mark 2:3-5
Is there anything I can do to help?”
“No. Thanks anyway, I believe I’ve got it under control.”
Sound familiar?
Why is this often our response to the help God is obviously sending our way?
We find it far easier to humble ourselves in service to others rather than allowing ourselves to be served.
But God is honored, and His blessings are abundant, when humility flows in both directions.
Two major foot and ankle surgeries taught me this. Caring for others has always brought me great satisfaction. But the tables were turned when for months it was I who needed caring for. God used this time to teach me a different side of humility.
What gracious people He brought into my life then, starting with my husband who finally discovered where we kept the laundry room. We laugh about this now, but in truth, I watched God grow his servant’s heart in ways that surprised us both.
Help and encouragement from our children, sweet, humbling prayers from our young grandchildren, warm casseroles, and healing conversations from friends filled our home during those long months.
But allowing ourselves to be served takes humility on our part. It can be uncomfortable, even embarrassing. Feeling needy and vulnerable is never fun.
The story of the paralytic man in Mark 2:1-12 speaks to me now in a different way than it once did. At first glance, it is the recounting of a theological discussion between Jesus and the religious leaders of the day on Jesus’ authority to forgive sin. When I read it now, I see a weakened man out of options. A man who humbled himself to receive help from friends who were eager to serve. I see the miraculous result when humility flows in both directions.
“No. Thanks anyway, I believe I’ve got it under control.”
What if this had been the paralytic's response to his friends’ bold idea that literally placed him at the very feet of Jesus that day? It would be quite a different story. Actually, there would be no story at all, just a missed opportunity for everyone involved.
God will often use the circumstances He allows in your life for the benefit of many.
Scripture tells us honor, an eternal inheritance, refreshment for yourself as well as others, and God’s pleasure are but a few of the blessings of humble service in His name. (Matthew 23:11-12, Colossians 3:23-24, Proverbs 11:25, Hebrews 13:16)
When you humble yourself to receive that service, you will be changed as well. A deeper intimacy with Christ and the blessing of allowing others to use their gifts to serve Him by serving you, will be yours. (John 13:8, 1 Peter 4:10)
Indeed, God is honored, and His blessings abundant, when humility flows in both directions.
The streets of Capernaum were crowded that day, not just with people, but with the power of Christ, and the grateful rejoicing of five men whose free-flowing humility made room for a miracle.
Questions for Reflection:
1. Is there an area in your life where you are resisting the help God is providing? Prayerfully determine why. Then ask God to help you receive that help with a grateful and humble spirit.
2. Take some time today to thank God for those whose ministry—in big ways and in small ways—has made a difference in your life. Make the effort to tell them so.
3. Look past yourself to the needs of others right now. Ask God for bold humility to offer your service in His Name.
