What comes to mind when you hear the word “success”? Prestige? Financial security? Standing out in a crowd? These are all fine goals, but what if we told you the greatest secret to real, lasting success isn’t about climbing higher—it’s about stooping lower?

Wait, don’t stop reading just yet! This isn’t a call to downplay your dreams or settle for less. Instead, it’s an invitation to explore a 2,000-year-old lesson that shifts our perspective on what success really looks like. We don’t level up through self-promotion or constantly proving our worth. We go higher through humility.

We’ll set the scene for you: It’s the night before Jesus is about to face betrayal, suffering, and death. He gathers His disciples for one final meal. The room is charged with tension. Some know something big is coming, but no one is prepared for what happens next.

Jesus gets up, ties a towel around His waist, and starts washing His disciples’ feet. Feet! Dusty, calloused, first-century feet. It’s shocking. This is their teacher, their leader, the one they believe is the Messiah. Yet here He is, performing a task reserved for the lowest servant.

Peter, one of His closest followers, even tries to stop Him, saying, “You shall never wash my feet.” But Jesus gently insists, showing that this act of humility is a profound teaching moment. When He finishes, Jesus doesn’t just let the moment linger. He explains: “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you” (John 13:15). In one simple act, He redefines greatness: not as being served, but as serving others.

You might be thinking, What does foot-washing have to do with my life? While we may not be scrubbing each other’s toes (thankfully!), the principle behind it is just as relevant today.

Here’s how Jesus’ example applies to our modern understanding of success:

In a world obsessed with climbing the ladder, Jesus teaches us that the real impact comes from lifting others up. Whether you’re a CEO, a parent, or a student, asking, “How can I serve?” shifts your focus outward. Genuine success includes leaving others better off through your influence and actions.

Practical Step:

Start small. Look for one way to serve someone today, whether it’s helping a colleague, encouraging a friend, or volunteering your time. Even the smallest acts of kindness can have a profound impact.

Think about the leaders you respect the most. Chances are, they’re not the loudest or most self-promoting voices in the room. True influence comes from humility, an attitude that says, “I’m here for you, not to be above you.”

Practical Step:

In your next meeting or interaction, focus on listening more than speaking. Let others feel heard and valued. Sometimes, the most impactful thing you can do is simply be present.

When Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, He wasn’t concerned about appearances. He wasn’t worried about how it might affect His reputation. That kind of freedom is possible when we stop letting ego dictate our actions. When we’re humble, we’re free to act in love rather than fear.

Practical Step:

Ask yourself: “What’s holding me back from serving in this situation? Is it pride, fear, or insecurity?” Challenge yourself to let go and take the first step.

The Bible repeatedly highlights how God blesses those who humble themselves. James 4:6 reminds us: “God opposes the proud but shows grace to the humble.” When we choose humility, we align ourselves with God’s design for our lives, opening the door for His favor to work in us and through us.

Consider how humility aligns your priorities with God’s. When you stop striving for recognition or control, you create space for Him to guide your steps. This doesn’t mean life will always be easy, but it does mean you’ll find peace in knowing you’re walking in His will.

Practical Step:

Spend time in prayer, asking God to reveal areas where pride might be blocking His blessings in your life. Surrender those areas to Him, trusting that His favor flows freely to those who humble themselves before Him.

Here’s the irony: embracing humility doesn’t mean you lose out. Instead, you gain something far greater—peace, stronger relationships, and a life that reflects real success. Humility isn’t about thinking less of yourself. It’s simply thinking of yourself less.

When we live in humility, we not only reflect Jesus’ heart but also position ourselves to receive His grace. As James 4:6 reminded us above, God actively shows grace, His favor, to those who walk in humility. That favor isn’t just a reward—it’s the foundation for a life filled with purpose, joy, and fulfillment.

So, what’s the lesson from 2,000 years ago that still resonates today? Success isn’t found in striving to be the best, but found in humbling ourselves to serve, love, and uplift others.

If this sounds countercultural, that’s because it is. But maybe the real question is, what’s holding you back from experiencing this kind of success?

As you think about how humility can reshape your life, consider taking a bold step to seek God’s guidance through prayer and fasting. These spiritual disciplines are powerful ways to align your heart with His will, surrender pride, and open yourself to His blessings.

At Faith Church, we’ve been diving into  21 Days of Prayer and Fasting. It’s an opportunity to start the season with intentionality, seeking God’s favor and direction in every area of our lives. 

You can also be a part of the prayers live! Join us every Monday – Saturday at 7:00 AM (CT) on Facebook in this season. Can’t make it that early? Hop on anytime and be a part of the conversation. Our team reads through your prayer requests throughout the day to be there for you! 

Whether you choose to do this along with us or dedicate your own time to prayer and fasting, don’t pass up this opportunity to experience God’s grace in a fresh way.

Are you ready to humble yourself and invite God to work in your life? Now is the perfect time to begin.