Let this same attitude and purpose and [humble] mind be in you which was in Christ Jesus: [Let Him be your example in humility:] (6) Who, although being essentially one with God and in the form of God [possessing the fullness of the attributes which make God God], did not think this equality with God was a thing to be eagerly grasped or retained, (7) But stripped Himself [of all privileges and rightful dignity], so as to assume the guise of a servant (slave), in that He became like men and was born a human being (Philippians 2:5-7 Amplified).
Bible Scholars call this passage the “kenosis” of Christ. The Greek Word Kenoo is used here to describe Jesus emptying Himself of the power of His office as the second member of the Trinity. Jesus didn’t empty Himself of His Deity, but separated Himself from His Divine power. He chose to live as we do, by the power of the Holy Spirit and in dependence upon the Word of God. That’s the reason He said in John 14:12 (NLT): I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in Me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father.
Self assertion, self-exaltation, self-energy, self promotion, and self consciousness are byproducts of Adam and Eve’s disobedience to God and have become inherent in human life. Although through the new birth old things pass away and all things become new (2 Corinthians 5:17), the residue of self-centered thinking and living remains a strong force in the life of a believer.
To put it simply, my biggest problem after salvation is self-centered, independent of the Father living. My biggest task is getting me out of the way and letting God have His total way in my life!
Jesus gave us an example of how to put down the tendency towards self-exaltation. He came as a servant, humbled Himself and chose the low road in life. He did this to show us that we can live a life of total submission of the flesh to the will of the Father. We can have the attitude of a servant. We can put ourselves last and put God’s will and other’s needs first.
Jesus provided redemption from sin for you and me, and an example of how to live a humble, God-submitted life in a fallen, self-aggrandizing world.
Make a decision today to humble yourself. Life is no longer about me, it’s about doing the will of the Father, and pleasing Him in all things. Our goals today should include putting ourselves last, and putting others first. Let this same attitude and purpose and humble mind be in you which was in Christ Jesus: Let Him be your example in humility.
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