For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many. Mark 10:45
“A study with participants from six countries looked at how a number of different properties, including personality factors, related to the frequency with which people reported giving and receiving help. It found that high levels of certain personality factors—guilt, extraversion, and religiosity—were correlated with measures of altruism in people across the different countries, whereas shame was negatively correlated with altruism. In addition, humility was a consistent and robust predictor of generosity” in three different experiments.”
Summer Allen in “The Science of Generosity” White Paper produced by the Greater Good Science Center.
I arrived safely home, changed out my suitcase, and head to Eastern Europe tonight. I have a humble, generous, and supportive wife. I need to attend a strategic dinner to attend in Slovakia on Thursday along with some other important meetings to advance peer accountability in Eastern Europe.
The international research shows that humility represents “a consistent and robust predictor of generosity.” Think about it. When we cultivate humility, we demonstrate that we understand that we exist not to be served but to serve a purpose bigger than ourselves.
But what can we do to cultivate humility and, in so doing, generosity? Focus on listening to God and others. Be content and grateful for what you have. Ask for help when you need it. Take a posture of service regardless of your position of power. Walk closely with Jesus. Start with that list.