Humble Beginnings by Jacqui Smit
South Africa, On-Air 7-10am
A Devotional on Jesus’ Birth in a Stable
The birth of Jesus is a story of humility. The King of Kings, the Savior of the world, was
not born in a palace surrounded by royal comforts but in a simple, humble stable.
Wrapped in swaddling clothes and placed in a manger—a feeding trough for animals—
Jesus’ birth was a remarkable reminder that God’s ways often exceed our expectations.
His presence and His power are found in the most ordinary, unexpected places.
Scripture:
“She gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a
manger, because there was no guest room available for them.” — Luke 2:7
Devotional
Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem; a town crowded with travellers. There was no
room for them in any inn, so they found shelter in a stable. There, in a place where
animals fed and rested, Mary gave birth to the Savior of the world. Jesus’ first moments
on earth were wrapped in simplicity, showing us, that God isn’t drawn to riches or status
but to the humble and lowly.
In choosing a stable as the birthplace of His Son, God was making a statement about
His heart for humanity. Jesus came for everyone—the poor, the weary, the outcast, and
the broken. He didn’t come to be served, but to serve, identifying with the humble and
lowly from the very beginning. This reminds us that God’s presence meets us wherever
we are, especially in the humble, quiet moments of our lives.
REFLECTION
God’s Heart for the Humble
• Are there areas where pride or self-reliance may be standing in the way of a deeper
relationship with Him?
• How can you embrace humility as you approach God?
• Just as Jesus was born in a simple stable, God often shows up in our everyday lives.
Where can you invite God into your daily routines, your work, or even the simple
moments that feel unimportant?
• By being born in a manger, Jesus shows us that His love and grace are for everyone.
• How might you extend that same kindness to someone in need, bringing God’s love
to those who may feel overlooked?
APPLICATION
Seek God in Simple Moments
• Take a few minutes each day this week to pause and recognize God’s presence in
the ordinary whether you’re cooking, driving, or spending time with family, invite
Him into those moments.
• Look for an opportunity to practice humility, perhaps by serving someone quietly or
putting someone else’s needs above your own. Let this be a way to follow Jesus’
example of humble love.
• Think of someone who might be feeling overlooked or struggling this season. Reach
out to them with a kind gesture—a card, a small gift, or even a message—letting
them know they’re loved and valued.
PRAYER
Lord, thank You for showing us Your humility through the birth of Jesus. Help me to see
that You are present in the ordinary moments of my life and that Your love reaches into
every corner of my heart. Teach me to embrace humility and to see others with Your
compassion. This Christmas, may I remember that true greatness is found in serving
others and sharing Your love with a humble heart. Amen.