The Pattern of Humility Philippians 2:1-11 KJV 1 If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, 2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. 3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. 4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. 5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Humility is characterized by an attitude that does not seek to exalt or assert oneself. In our world, this quality is certainly not found in everybody. But in God’s kingdom, it is an essential attribute for Christ-followers to have. Jesus’ life was the definition of “humble.” To become a man, He gave up the glory, majesty, and power that were His in heaven. The Lord voluntarily emptied Himself — just as a glass of water is poured out — and for the purpose of serving us, surrendered all that He shared with His Father. Not only that, but as a man, Jesus took on the role of a lowly servant. He lovingly submitted Himself to His Father’s plan and relinquished even earthly rights to rescue us from sin. He endured criticism, ridicule, unbelief, and, finally, crucifixion in order to help us. His humility knew no limit. He humbled Himself before the Father to become the Lamb of God, and He did so in full view of mankind, even when He was labeled a criminal and unjustly convicted. His life demonstrates the importance of being humble and gives us a clear pattern to follow. The disciples missed the point until later on, since they didn’t expect a Messiah in the form of a servant. The leaders felt threatened because Jesus’ call to follow His lifestyle would not give them the importance they desired. The crowds were bewildered because they didn’t understand the danger of pride. But the Father saw Jesus’ meekness and was pleased. What attitude does God see when He looks at you and me?
Posted on: Fri, 14 Mar 2014 02:20:54 +0000