Have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.
— Philippians 2:5
One of the most important goals for a believer in Christ is to have the same mindset as Jesus.Wouldn’t that be amazing?! In Philippians 2, the apostle Paul describes the attitude Jesus had when he came from heaven to earth to live among us and to save us from sin and death.In his descent, Jesus gave up all the power and glory he had in heaven by becoming a human being. He also came without status or privilege by taking the nature of a servant. Then he gave up even the life of a poor servant by submitting to death on a cross. In sum, the greatest being in the universe gave up everything and became a victim of excruciating punishment at the hands of brutal, mocking humans for our sake.To share in Jesus’ mindset, we are called to join in Jesus’ way of life. He showed complete sacrifice and humility. Jesus, who had all power and glory and majesty and privilege in heaven, gave it all up. He did not cling to anything that he rightfully had as the Son of God. He gave no thought to his own status or well-being. He gave it all up, for all of us.Is there anything you have that you might feel you deserve or have a right to?If we want to be like Christ, we need to give up any sense of entitlement so that we can serve God wholeheartedly and faithfully.
Lord Jesus, we wish to be like you, but the cost is great. By the power of your Spirit in us, help us to deny our own rights and desires and to seek yours. May your attitude be ours. Amen.
