Philippians 2:3 Do nothing out of rivalry or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves.

Let’s be honest: most of us don’t naturally assume the best about other people. When someone cuts us off in traffic, forgets to text back, or seems short with us, it is easy to assume malice, disrespect, or incompetence. But Paul doesn’t leave us any wiggle room here—he tells us to operate out of humility and to treat others like they’re actually more important than we are. That’s not just good manners; it’s a spiritual discipline.

Assuming the best is not the same as being naïve.

It’s a conscious choice to let love lead your interpretation of someone’s actions.

When a co-worker speaks sharply, a friend cancels plans, or your spouse forgets something again, humility says, “Maybe they’re tired. Maybe they’re hurting. Maybe I don’t have the full story.” That pause—grounded in grace—is what keeps us from snapping, gossiping, or turning cold.

This kind of mindset reshapes how we deal with conflict, disappointment, and misunderstanding. Instead of playing the mental game of “what did they mean by that?” we start asking “how can I love them in this?” It doesn’t mean we never confront issues—it means we approach them from a place of honor instead of ego. That’s the difference between being Christlike and just being “right.”

Start here: change your default setting. Humility isn’t weakness. It’s strength under control. It’s a willful choice to elevate others because you know God’s already secured your worth. When you assume the best in others, you reflect the One who gave His best for you.

Reflection Questions:

When was the last time I assumed the worst about someone—and how might that situation have changed if I had responded with humility?

What one relationship in my life needs a fresh dose of grace today?

Prayer: Lord, teach me to see others through Your eyes. Crush my pride, and build in me the kind of humility that chooses love over suspicion. Help me honor others the way You’ve honored me with grace and patience. Make me more like Christ—gentle, lowly in heart, and full of compassion. Amen.

Today's devotional is from Faith At Work: A Devotional for Christians Who Represent Christ on the Job You can get it here:

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