The Upper Room Devotional 19 March 2026, Thursday Message
A Lesson in Humility
John D. Bown (Minnesota, USA)
Today’s Reading
John 13:1-17
God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble. – James 4:6 (NIV)
The story of the Lord’s Supper is told in all four Gospels. However, Luke’s Gospel includes a passage that is not mentioned in the other three.
Luke writes that the disciples were arguing about which of them would be considered the greatest. I find it interesting that their prideful boasting occurred while Jesus was doing the exact opposite. In a remarkable act of humility, he stunned his disciples by removing his outer garment and washing their feet. Humility was despised in the ancient world as a sign of weakness, yet Jesus willingly did a task usually done by the lowest of servants. Even though he was just hours from his crucifixion, Jesus wanted to make sure his followers learned an important lesson about serving others.
I can relate to the story because I’ve certainly struggled with pride at times. I think many of us have since Western culture often encourages us to focus on ourselves. But when we look to the Bible for guidance, we find that God’s value system often contradicts what the world says. Jesus shows us that humility and service are the way to greatness in God’s kingdom.
Thought for the Day
God defines greatness by service, not status.
Prayer Focus
Those who struggle with pride
Today’s Prayer
Dear God, guide us to live in the way your Son, Jesus, showed us. Help us to focus on humbly serving others to bring glory to you. Amen.
The Upper Room Devotional 19 March 2026 is a daily devotional magazine published in more than 30 languages and 100 countries around the world. The daily meditations are written by readers of the magazine and others interested in sharing their faith experiences through writing—both laity and clergy, published authors and new writers. Read More