Embracing Humility: Lessons from Solomon and Jesus
Summary
In my sermon, I explored the theme of identifying and distancing ourselves from toxic individuals, drawing from the biblical account of King Solomon's wisdom in dealing with such people in 1 Kings chapter 2. I began by sharing contemporary stories of toxic relationships, highlighting the distress and harm they cause. I then transitioned to the biblical narrative, where David, nearing the end of his life, charged Solomon to walk in God's ways and keep His commandments for a prosperous reign.
David warned Solomon about certain individuals who could threaten his kingdom, specifically Joab and Shimei, who had histories of violence and betrayal. Solomon's actions following his father's advice were decisive. He dealt with Adonijah, who felt entitled to the throne and made a strategic move to claim power by requesting to marry Abishag. Solomon discerned the threat and had Adonijah executed for treason.
Solomon also removed Abiathar from the priesthood, ending the line of Eli as prophesied, because Abiathar had supported Adonijah and was playing politics. Joab, once a trusted commander, sought sanctuary in the tabernacle but was executed for his past murders and disloyalty. Shimei was granted grace but eventually executed for breaking his agreement with Solomon.
Throughout the sermon, I emphasized the importance of humility, using Jesus as the ultimate example. Despite being entitled to all glory, Jesus chose the title "Son of Man" and humbled Himself to the point of death on the cross. I encouraged the congregation to emulate Jesus' humility and self-control, avoiding the pitfalls of entitlement, obsession with titles, untrustworthiness, and lack of self-control.
Key Takeaways:
1. Entitlement can blind individuals to reality and lead to toxic behavior. Adonijah's sense of entitlement and his subsequent actions serve as a warning against such attitudes. As followers of Christ, we must reject entitlement and embrace humility, recognizing that we are not owed anything and that our worth comes from God alone. [11:59]
2. Titles and positions should not define our identity or worth. The secular world recognizes that true leaders influence without relying on titles. In the church, we must focus on serving and doing what is right, rather than being preoccupied with titles. This aligns with Jesus' example of servanthood and humility. [22:19]
3. Trustworthiness is a non-negotiable trait in healthy relationships. Joab's betrayal and untrustworthiness led to his downfall. We must surround ourselves with people who can be trusted to speak the truth in love and act with integrity, reflecting the trustworthy nature of Jesus Himself. [29:49]
4. Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit and a mark of a Spirit-filled life. Shimei's lack of self-control ultimately led to his demise. We must cultivate self-control in our own lives and associate with those who demonstrate this quality, as it honors God and leads to wise living. [39:53]
5. Jesus is the perfect example of unentitlement, trustworthiness, and self-control. We should draw nearer to Him and invite Him into our hearts for an intimate relationship. By learning from Jesus and emulating His character, we can find true purpose, joy, satisfaction, and eternal life. [41:53]
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. 1 Kings 2:1-46 - The story of King Solomon dealing with toxic individuals as advised by his father, David.
2. Philippians 2:5-8 - Jesus' example of humility and self-control.
#### Observation Questions
1. What specific advice did David give Solomon regarding Joab and Shimei, and why? ([04:42])
2. How did Solomon handle Adonijah's request to marry Abishag, and what was the underlying reason for his decision? ([10:33])
3. What actions did Solomon take against Abiathar, and what prophecy did this fulfill? ([15:11])
4. How did Solomon's treatment of Shimei demonstrate the importance of self-control? ([35:33])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is entitlement considered a toxic trait, and how did Adonijah's sense of entitlement lead to his downfall? ([11:59])
2. How does valuing titles and positions over genuine leadership create toxicity in relationships, as seen in the example of Abiathar? ([17:06])
3. In what ways did Joab's lack of trustworthiness manifest, and why is trustworthiness crucial in healthy relationships? ([29:49])
4. How does Shimei's lack of self-control serve as a warning for us today, and what can we learn from his story? ([39:53])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt entitled to something. How did that sense of entitlement affect your behavior and relationships? What steps can you take to cultivate humility instead? ([11:59])
2. Think about a situation where you or someone you know valued a title or position over genuine service. How did that impact the effectiveness of leadership? How can you focus more on serving others rather than seeking titles? ([17:06])
3. Identify a person in your life who has demonstrated untrustworthiness. How has this affected your relationship with them? What boundaries can you set to protect yourself while still showing Christ-like love? ([29:49])
4. Consider an area in your life where you struggle with self-control. What practical steps can you take to improve in this area, and how can you seek the Holy Spirit's help in cultivating self-control? ([39:53])
5. Jesus exemplified humility, trustworthiness, and self-control. How can you draw nearer to Him and invite Him into your daily life to emulate these qualities? ([41:53])
6. Reflect on the people you surround yourself with. Are there any toxic individuals you need to distance yourself from? How can you approach this situation with wisdom and grace? ([41:07])
7. How can you actively seek to build healthy, Christ-centered relationships that reflect the trustworthiness and humility of Jesus? What specific actions can you take this week to foster such relationships? ([41:53])
Devotional
Day 1: Rejecting Entitlement, Embracing Humility
Entitlement is a mindset that can subtly take root in one's heart, leading to a distorted view of self and others. It is the belief that one deserves certain privileges or recognition without regard for the contributions or rights of others. This attitude can cause significant harm in relationships and communities, as it often leads to toxic behavior and conflict. In the biblical narrative, Adonijah's sense of entitlement led him to make a power grab for the throne, which ultimately resulted in his downfall. His actions serve as a stark reminder that entitlement can blind individuals to the reality of their circumstances and the needs of those around them. As believers, it is crucial to reject this sense of entitlement and instead adopt a posture of humility. Humility allows one to see oneself and others through the lens of grace and truth, acknowledging that all good things come from God and that no one is inherently deserving of honor or power. This perspective aligns with the character of Christ, who, despite being the Son of God, displayed ultimate humility in His life and death. [11:59]
Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV): "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others."
Reflection: How can you practice humility in a situation where you feel you deserve recognition or reward?
Day 2: Servanthood Over Status
The pursuit of titles and positions can often overshadow the true essence of leadership and service. In a world that places high value on status, it is easy to become preoccupied with how one is perceived by others, rather than focusing on the impact of one's actions and character. The Bible teaches that true greatness is not found in the accolades or titles one holds, but in the willingness to serve and uplift others. This principle is exemplified in the life of Jesus, who chose to be known as the "Son of Man" and served others selflessly, even to the point of death. In the church and in everyday life, it is important to remember that one's worth is not determined by a title but by the capacity to love and serve others in humility. [22:19]
Mark 10:43-45 (ESV): "But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Reflection: What is one way you can serve someone else today without seeking recognition or reward?
Day 3: The Value of Trustworthiness
Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship, whether it be personal, professional, or spiritual. Without trust, relationships crumble under the weight of suspicion and insecurity. The story of Joab serves as a powerful example of how betrayal and a lack of trustworthiness can lead to ruin. His disloyalty and deceit not only caused damage to those around him but also led to his own downfall. As followers of Christ, it is imperative to cultivate trustworthiness in oneself and to seek out relationships with those who value and practice this trait. Trustworthiness reflects the nature of Jesus, who is the epitome of faithfulness and truth. By being reliable and honest, believers honor God and build strong, enduring relationships that can weather the challenges of life. [29:49]
Proverbs 25:19 (ESV): "Trusting in a treacherous man in time of trouble is like a bad tooth or a foot that slips."
Reflection: Can you identify a relationship in your life that needs strengthening through the practice of trustworthiness?
Day 4: Cultivating Self-Control
Self-control is a vital aspect of a Spirit-filled life and is essential for wise and godly living. It is the ability to restrain one's emotions, desires, and actions in order to make choices that honor God and benefit oneself and others. The lack of self-control, as seen in the case of Shimei, can lead to destructive outcomes and even personal demise. As believers, it is important to recognize that self-control is not merely a personal virtue but a fruit of the Spirit, which grows as one deepens their relationship with God. By practicing self-control, individuals can avoid the pitfalls of impulsive decisions and harmful behaviors, living in a way that reflects the character of Christ and brings glory to God. [39:53]
2 Peter 1:5-6 (ESV): "For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness."
Reflection: What is one area in your life where you need to exercise more self-control, and what practical step can you take to improve in that area?
Day 5: Following Jesus' Example
Jesus Christ is the perfect model of humility, trustworthiness, and self-control. His life and teachings provide a blueprint for how to live in a way that is pleasing to God and edifying to others. By drawing near to Jesus and inviting Him into every aspect of life, believers can develop a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him. This relationship is the source of true purpose, joy, satisfaction, and the promise of eternal life. As followers of Christ, it is essential to study His life and emulate His character, allowing His Spirit to transform hearts and minds. In doing so, believers can navigate the complexities of life with wisdom and grace, shining as lights in a world that desperately needs the hope and love that Jesus offers. [41:53]
1 Peter 2:21-23 (ESV): "For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly."
Reflection: How can you more closely follow Jesus' example in your daily interactions with others?
Quotes
1. "Can you imagine having friends like this? Here are two stories I read on the internet that caused people to hit their breaking point with their toxic friends... a truly toxic person will take and take and take and give you nothing in return." [01:49]
2. "Many people talk about toxic relationships in the context of romance. But the reality is any relationship can be toxic, including relationships with coworkers, in-laws, parents, siblings, and friends. In life, we may have many unhealthy relationships, and some, indeed, become toxic." [02:51]
3. "People who focus on titles and positions usually get to a place where they feel entitled to something those are toxic people you don't want around you. You want to surround yourself with people who will speak the truth in love regardless of titles." [23:47]
4. "If they acknowledge mistakes because we all make them, then it shows that they're taking personal responsibilities without excuses... It's hard to trust someone with double standards and shifting rules. That's why for us as parents, the most important thing we desire or should desire for our children is to mold the character of our child." [33:34]
5. "Proverbs chapter 27, verses 6 and 9 reminds us... Of all the titles the second person of the divine triune Godhead could use, the Son of God, God himself, the Messiah, the Savior, our Lord Jesus Christ, describe himself, he most often uses the title Son of Man." [24:39]
6. "If you're caught up, my friends, in the title position game, think about Jesus and follow his example... Follow Jesus. Follow Christ. And distance yourself from those who value titles and not address something to someone who has rightfully earned their distinctions." [26:00]
7. "Putting it all together, how do we detox from toxic people? Number one, watch out for people who feel entitled. Number two, watch out for people who value titles. Number three, watch out for people who cannot be trusted. And finally, watch out for people who lack self-control." [40:44]
8. "But there is one whom we should draw nearer to. His name is Jesus. He perfectly exemplified unentitlement. He disregarded His titles and positions to take on bodily form to die for us. He has never lied to us and can be fully trusted." [41:07]
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