In last Sunday’s message from Numbers 22:21–35, we encountered one of the Bible’s most surprising messengers: a talking donkey. As strange as that sounds, the lesson was clear—God can speak truth to us through the most unexpected means. The real question is whether we’re humble enough to listen. 

Humility is one of the most underrated virtues in our time. We tend to reward loud voices, polished charisma, and those who always seem to have the answers. But Scripture—and experience—tell us something different. “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom” (Proverbs 11:2). It’s not just a personal trait—it’s essential for a healthy church, a successful team, and a Christ-centered life. 

One of the clearest illustrations of this comes from author Jim Collins in his landmark book Good to Great. Collins identifies Level 5 Leaders—the most effective, transformative leaders—not by how forcefully they led, but by how humbly they carried themselves. 

He writes: 

“Level 5 leaders channel their ego needs away from themselves and into the larger goal of building a great company… They are incredibly ambitious—but their ambition is first and foremost for the institution, not themselves.” 
(Good to Great, Chapter 2, p. 21) 

These leaders, Collins found, were often quiet, modest, unassuming, and gracious—people you might overlook in a crowd. But behind that reserved presence was fierce resolve, an unshakeable commitment to mission over ego. They weren’t the boldest personalities or the most charismatic speakers. As I said in my sermon: “They were marked by a paradoxical blend of fierce resolve and deep humility.” 

They did something else remarkable: they looked out the window and in the mirror. When things went well, they credited others or even good luck. When things went poorly, they looked in the mirror and took responsibility. No excuses. No blame-shifting. Just the quiet strength of humility. 

A current example of a Level 5 Leader is Warren Buffett – CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. Despite being one of the richest people in the world, he’s famously humble—still lives in the same house he bought in 1958, drives a modest car, and gives credit to others. He consistently emphasizes integrity, patience, and humility, as is reflected in his quote about the character and reputation of a leader: 

Warren Buffett has often said, “It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it.” That’s true in business, in relationships, and especially in the church. The more we grow in humility, the more we protect the integrity of the gospel we proclaim. 

As a congregation, we are strongest when we walk in humility—when we listen well, receive correction without defensiveness, and stay open to God’s leading, even when it comes from unlikely places. 

May we be a church filled with Level 5 spirits. 
Not loud. Not flashy. But faithful, focused, and humble. 
That’s the kind of greatness that glorifies God. 

In His grace,