2023
Ministering with Humility
February 2023

“Ministering with Humility,” Liahona, Feb. 2023.

Ministering Principles

Ministering with Humility

Developing greater humility will improve our ability to minster as the Savior did.

John baptizing Jesus

John Baptizing Jesus, by Harry Anderson

John the Baptist Is an Example of Humility

John the Baptist experienced great success in his ministry. He brought many to a greater understanding of the truth. But John understood that his primary role was to prepare the people to be changed by the Savior. John knew Jesus “must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30). He recognized who deserved the praise and glory. He knew where the power to do good came from. Others might have gotten caught up in all the good they were doing, but John exemplified the Christlike attribute of humility.

When Jesus came to John and asked to be baptized, John humbly responded with surprise at the request: “I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?” (Matthew 3:14). Then John showed humility again by obeying the Savior’s direction and doing as He asked.

Because of his humility, John was able to prepare the way for many to come unto Jesus Christ.

older man praying

Practicing Humility in Ministering

Striving to learn humility will help our efforts to minister to one another.

1. It takes humility to accept an assignment to minister from those called to lead us (see 1 Peter 5:1–6; Philippians 2:8). Humility helps us move forward with faith that the Lord will bless our efforts (see Ether 12:27; Doctrine and Covenants 1:28).

2. It takes humility to seek guidance and follow promptings. Being humble will make us more teachable and open to promptings of the Spirit. (See Doctrine and Covenants 112:10.) A humble heart is more prepared to receive inspiration and is softer and full of compassion. Receiving inspiration will help us serve in the way that will be best for those we minister to.

3. It takes humility to associate with and serve someone who is different from us (see Romans 12:3–5; Philippians 2:1–3). Regardless of differences, trying to understand how we are alike can help us connect with others better. Practicing the art of careful listening can help us understand them, learn from them, and recognize how we can help them. Asking ourselves the question “What would help me most if I were in their shoes?” may give us ideas.

4. It takes humility to recognize that we are all still learning and growing together. We can be patient with others and hope that they will be patient with us. (See Colossians 3:12–13.) Seeking feedback on ways we can improve takes humility.

5. On the receiving side of ministering, accepting help isn’t always easy. We naturally want to feel we can handle problems on our own. However, accepting the ministering of others is a way to strengthen friendships, since serving others promotes love between us. Allowing others to serve us takes a soft, humble heart that we should all work to acquire. (See 1 Peter 3:8–9.)

woman reading the scriptures

Developing Humility

As we come to know the Savior, we will know better what He would do to minister in our place. How can we develop the Christlike attribute of humility?

  1. We can fast and pray for humility (see Helaman 3:35; Psalm 35:13).

  2. We can remember and be grateful for what He has done for us (see Mosiah 4:11).

  3. We can recognize our dependence on Him (see Mosiah 2:23–25; Ether 12:27).

  4. We can repent (see Alma 5:26–29).

  5. Our humility can increase as we invite the Spirit into our lives (see Doctrine and Covenants 11:12).