Teach with Humility

We are all teachers somehow, whether we lead a class or teach a baby how to eat from a spoon. Our attitude as we teach either helps or hinders our message. What is it like to be humble and make others significant? One way is by listening, being flexible enough to care for needs when they arise, and addressing them more than getting through a lesson. And if need be, stay longer to meet that need. The Bible reminds us to put other’s needs ahead of our own. Sometimes, as a teacher, I think the lesson I’ve studied to present is most important, but if I listen or read the room, it’s not.

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. Philippians 2:3-4 

What’s my Motive?

When serving, ask yourself, “What’s my motive?” My motives may be wrong, or I may just want to get through the lesson. Jesus sets a good example by doing what Father God wanted. He placed people’s needs ahead of His own and demonstrated His love by serving, healing, and sharing stories with His followers.

I have realized I need to listen more when serving or teaching. I want to listen more and speak less. I aspire to be a listening teacher and follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit when I teach. Of course, I will lead thoughtfully, but I do not want every teaching session to be solely about me and what I have learned or studied for the lesson.

I lead a group of women, and this week, before teaching them, I asked the Holy Spirit for guidance on what to teach. I was interested to hear His response: to state the scripture, ask questions, and share stories. Today, I followed His guidance and asked for an honest response from the women, even asking for stories if they wanted to share. I encouraged them to speak up and share their thoughts, as we had an hour to delve into the topic. I didn’t want to be the only one talking; instead, I wanted to discuss where we all learned from each other.

It’s not always easy to stay in the flow of the Holy Spirit during a class, especially when we are used to following a set schedule. However, as teachers, we must reflect humbly and ask ourselves if our lesson concerns what we know or need to learn. The Holy Spirit guides us where we need to be, and we must be open to following His lead.

One time, I was teaching at a retreat, and each speaker had a chance to give their talk in front of clergy and staff. I was so nervous because I had never had to do this before. So afterward, there was a meeting, and they gave a lot of positive feedback. However, one of the clergy requested I include a fresh story to illustrate a point in my talk. The retreat was a month away. During that month, I endured another setback with one of our children. It was so hard, and there were tears. But I had a fresh story. This story touched the women deeply because many could relate to it, bringing home my point perfectly. 

When we are honest and vulnerable, we can share our sorrows and listen while others share theirs. Slow down and be thoughtful and gentle with whom you are teaching.

Prayer:  God, I want to be humble while teaching and serving others. Please remind me to slow down and read the room while keeping in step with the Holy Spirit. Bless this time together so I can be effective in ministry. In Jesus Name, Amen

If you are wise and understand God’s ways, prove it by living an honorable life doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom. James 3:13 NLT

Do you love podcasts? I do. I listen to them while driving, cooking, and cleaning the house. It keeps my mind engaged while handling the daily tasks. Many of Kim’s blogs are on the My Heart’s Cry Podcast.

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