God And The Underdogs | Pastor Nate Keeler
In a world where appearances often overshadow substance, it’s easy to focus on externals. Social media highlights beauty, achievements, and popularity, making it tempting to measure ourselves and others by these standards. But God’s view is different. He looks at the heart, valuing humility over status or skill. David’s life offers a roadmap for understanding the kind of heart God desires.
The Humble Heart That God Values
The Bible tells us, “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). God chose David—a shepherd boy—as king because of his humble and faithful heart. David’s humility wasn’t just a momentary trait; it was a lifestyle.
- David’s Reaction to Being Anointed:
After Samuel anointed David, he didn’t flaunt his new title. Instead, he returned to the fields to tend his sheep. Imagine being told you’ll lead a nation and then going back to an ordinary, thankless job. This act spoke volumes about his humility. - Remaining Grounded Despite Success:
Even after being called to play music for King Saul, David didn’t demand recognition. His heart remained focused on serving faithfully.
David’s actions show us that humility isn’t about downplaying our worth. Instead, it’s about knowing our value comes from God and living in a way that reflects this truth.
Five Traits of a Humble Heart
What does humility look like in daily life? Studies and Scripture reveal five traits that define a humble heart, all beautifully displayed in David’s life.
1. Acknowledging Mistakes:
A humble person owns their failures. David exemplified this in Psalm 51, where he confessed his sin with deep remorse, saying, “A broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise” (Psalm 51:17).
Do you take responsibility for your mistakes, or do you find yourself justifying or blaming others? Owning your shortcomings builds trust with others and deepens your relationship with God.
2. Openness to Feedback:
Humility means valuing advice. David surrounded himself with wise counselors, such as Nathan the prophet and Jonathan his friend. He listened to their input and acted accordingly. Proverbs 13:10 reminds us, “Wisdom is found in those who take advice.”
Are you receptive to feedback about your life, relationships, or leadership? Being open to others’ perspectives shows a teachable spirit and a willingness to grow.
3. Respect for Others:
David respected Saul’s authority, even when Saul unjustly pursued him. David had the opportunity to kill Saul but refrained, saying, “Who am I to lift my hand against the Lord’s anointed?” His respect extended not just to God’s anointed but to everyone he led.
Respect for others reflects a humble heart that values people as God does. It transforms our interactions, fostering peace and understanding.
4. Gratitude as a Lifestyle:
Gratitude flows from humility. David’s Psalms are filled with praise for God’s greatness and goodness, such as in Psalm 8: “What is mankind that you are mindful of them?” Recognizing God’s blessings helps us avoid entitlement and fosters contentment.
Practicing gratitude is as simple as pausing each day to thank God for His provision, protection, and presence.
5. A Readiness to Serve:
Humility prioritizes serving others above oneself. Before David was king, he was a shepherd. Even after his anointing, he returned to care for his sheep. Psalm 78 highlights this, saying, “David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them.”
Whether it’s helping a neighbor or leading with compassion, humility asks, “How can I serve?” rather than “What’s in it for me?”
Jesus: The Perfect Model of Humility
David’s humility points us to the ultimate example—Jesus Christ. In Matthew 11:29, Jesus describes His heart as “gentle and humble.” His life demonstrated humility at every turn, from washing His disciples’ feet to dying on the cross for humanity.
Philippians 2:5-8 beautifully captures Jesus’ humility:
“Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, He made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross.”
Jesus could have demanded worship and honor, but instead, He chose service and sacrifice. His humility wasn’t weakness but strength under control, a deliberate choice to place others above Himself.
Why Does Humility Matter?
Humility opens the door to God’s grace. James 4:6 tells us, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” Pride blocks grace because it refuses to acknowledge our need for God. But a humble heart recognizes our dependence on Him.
Salvation itself begins with humility. It requires admitting we can’t save ourselves and accepting God’s free gift of grace. As Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us, “It is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Humility also deepens our relationships. When we practice humility, we become more compassionate, patient, and forgiving, reflecting God’s love to those around us.
Practical Ways to Cultivate Humility
1. Reflect on Your Own Heart:
Use the five traits of humility as a mirror. Are you open to feedback? Do you respect others deeply? Consider asking someone you trust for their honest perspective on how you embody humility.
2. Seek Humility in Relationships:
Whether choosing friends or a partner, prioritize inner character over outward appearances. Look for people who display kindness, gratitude, and a willingness to serve.
3. Commit to Growth in 2025:
Let this year be about developing your inner qualities. Dive into Scriptures like 1 Samuel and Philippians to deepen your understanding of humility. Set specific goals, such as practicing gratitude daily or seeking wise counsel more intentionally.
4. Model Humility for Others:
Whether in your family, workplace, or church, let humility guide your actions. Serve without seeking recognition and celebrate others’ successes genuinely.
Conclusion: Embracing the Heart God Seeks
God doesn’t measure you by your achievements, appearance, or social following. He’s looking for a heart of humility—a heart like David’s that points to Jesus. Cultivating humility isn’t about perfection. It’s about acknowledging your need for grace and aligning your heart with God’s.
Are you ready to embrace a heart of humility and experience the fullness of God’s grace in your life?