"So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work our your salvation with fear and trembling" Philippians 2:12
PHILIPPIANS 2:3-13
Brace yourself, it's a wild ride today!
In verse 3, following his words about unity, Paul commands the Philippians to watch their motives - our regard for one another should not come from selfishness or conceit but out of humility of mind. And what better example can he give than Christ? Jesus became a servant, taking on a human appearance and existence (v. 4-8). He had eternally existed with God the Father (Jn 1:1) and in coming to earth He showed complete submission to the Father by dying on the cross. He could have told the Father how He wanted to do things, what He thought would be best, but He didn't. He humbled Himself (v. 8). His Father's plan was more important than His life - and Him following that plan brought Him back to life and gives us life. And so, the Father exalted Him, giving Him all authority and power, meaning all people from all time will one day bow before Him and confess He is Lord (v. 9-11).
Now consider, this gospel compelled you to obey and place your trust and faith in Christ. So your job is not to determine other's place in salvation, but to look at your own with great care, diligence ad concern. It is God at work in you! Take care to listen to Him and seek how He would have you respond. You are responsible for Your walk with The Lord. With the description of Christ's humility and servantly submission, it can be easy to see where other believers don't measure up, but stop! Don't work out their walk with The Lord for them, work out yours! If you think it doesn't need any work, read through the description of Christ in verses 5-8 again and pray for The Lord to open your eyes.
Jesus, thank You for humbling Yourself, for submitting to Your Father's will, and saving my life. I will never be perfect like You, but please help me grow in loving and serving others with humility. Help me to look at my own heart and walk with You rather than try to fix others. I praise You for loving me just as I am. In Your Name, Amen.
PHILIPPIANS 2:3-13
Brace yourself, it's a wild ride today!
In verse 3, following his words about unity, Paul commands the Philippians to watch their motives - our regard for one another should not come from selfishness or conceit but out of humility of mind. And what better example can he give than Christ? Jesus became a servant, taking on a human appearance and existence (v. 4-8). He had eternally existed with God the Father (Jn 1:1) and in coming to earth He showed complete submission to the Father by dying on the cross. He could have told the Father how He wanted to do things, what He thought would be best, but He didn't. He humbled Himself (v. 8). His Father's plan was more important than His life - and Him following that plan brought Him back to life and gives us life. And so, the Father exalted Him, giving Him all authority and power, meaning all people from all time will one day bow before Him and confess He is Lord (v. 9-11).
Now consider, this gospel compelled you to obey and place your trust and faith in Christ. So your job is not to determine other's place in salvation, but to look at your own with great care, diligence ad concern. It is God at work in you! Take care to listen to Him and seek how He would have you respond. You are responsible for Your walk with The Lord. With the description of Christ's humility and servantly submission, it can be easy to see where other believers don't measure up, but stop! Don't work out their walk with The Lord for them, work out yours! If you think it doesn't need any work, read through the description of Christ in verses 5-8 again and pray for The Lord to open your eyes.
Jesus, thank You for humbling Yourself, for submitting to Your Father's will, and saving my life. I will never be perfect like You, but please help me grow in loving and serving others with humility. Help me to look at my own heart and walk with You rather than try to fix others. I praise You for loving me just as I am. In Your Name, Amen.
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