Philippians 2 - 4.27.23
Scripture
Philippians 2:5-8
“You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross.”
Observation
Paul is writing the church of Philippi and is encouraging them to take on the attitude of Jesus Christ. He implores them to be compassionate and loving. He reminds them to love one another and to work together for the one purpose of spreading the gospel to others. Paul tells them to not be selfish; to think of others as better than themselves. Paul tells them to humble themselves, to not only lookout for their own interests, but take an interest in others as well. Ultimately, Paul is able to point to the life of Jesus, and use that as an example of how they all should be living their lives.
Jesus not only talked the talk, but He also walked the walk.
You know the old saying "Actions speak louder than words"? Well Jesus spoke volumes through His actions. Here is God in the flesh, who gave up His throne from Heaven, to come down to earth and be born in a lowly manger. He came not with a sense of entitlement, but rather came to us with a humble heart. He came to serve, not be served. He came to not only tell us how we should live our lives, but he also demonstrated with His actions how to do it. And above anything else, He took the fall for our sinful nature. Jesus put God's plan, and others’ well being, ahead of His own. I cannot help but admire, respect, honor, and love Him for that!
Application
Does my life reflect one of following Jesus Christ? What areas can I improve in?
There is something about following Someone that you know put in the work themselves. You know that they were once in your shoes, and found a way to get the job done. There is something about following Someone that you know, when times are tough, that they don't mind rolling up their sleeves, and getting dirty. There is something about following Someone who is willing to do life with you, and has your back no matter what! There is something about following Someone who puts your needs above their own, and is even willing to die for you. Now that is Someone I am willing to follow and strive to be like each day!
“Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did.” 1 John 2:6 NLT
Prayer
Thank You Jesus for leaving the comforts and riches of Your throne in Heaven, to lead us and show us how to live. Give me a humble heart to serve others the way You did. Give me the eyes for the lost so that I may help guide them and lead them to You. Give me discipline to not be stuck on my own selfish ambitions, but to instead be more driven to serve Your kingdom. In Your name Jesus I pray, Amen.
-Moses Gaddi