Same Mind!

Same Mind!

Let this same attitude and purpose and [humble] mind be in you which was in Christ Jesus: [Let Him be your example in humility:] Philippians 2:5 AMPC

As I look at the text of today's extract, the first thing to consider is the mind of Christ. If it will be the perfect example laid before me, I need to understand why and how. If I carefully consider the verses after the one above, I learn a few things: 1. Jesus was secure in the knowledge of who He was. There was no threat to his identity or nature and nothing man did or didn't do could change that. For me, if indeed I have given my life to Christ, I should be confident in my new ownership. I answer to a different master now, and no force of earth or hell can shake me, unless I allow it to.

2. Jesus willingly gave up all the glory that was His and left it in heaven so He could identify with us and help us become like Him. For me, if indeed I am confident in my new allegiance, no assignment or labour is beneath me. Earthly man defines work by its monetary value; God defines work by its impact and the one who commissions it. If God backs you up, it really doesn't matter how people perceive you or if they even listen to you. You are not required to prove your identity; that is already settled. You are only required to deliver the message you have been sent, and leave the reception or rejection to man.

3. Jesus took on the worst of assignments so He could get the best out of man. He died a terrible death; one with a curse, so we could be a blessing. It was the only way for man to be redeemed; nothing else would have worked. For me, I carefully consider this: is there any assignment so hard that I think I can't carry out? Is there a limit to my commitment, especially when life is involved? Can't speak for anyone else, but men like Stephen, James, John the Baptist all served and stood for God, yet their end was not 'attractive'. If God calls in this manner, can I dare say YES?

4. For Jesus, the end justified the means. He paid the price and laid the path to life, and invites all men to come in freely, without price, and take hold of the free gift of life on offer. For me, I must keep at the back of my mind and in front of my eyes the end game: what is this all about? Where am I headed? At the end of it all, what is in it for me? Jesus got all His glory back and maybe much more, and for all who stand to the end, there is a promise of crowns and glory. I keep this in view, realising that nothing in this present world can replace the personal experience of God in my life.

Jesus is the perfect example, not just for humility, but in all life. His Word gives an insight into his life and how he lived, and how I can live as He did and be a blessing as He intends. Am I reading? Am I listening? Am I obedient? His time of favour is here.