Philippians 2:8
And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death -- even death on the cross.
*Strong's Ex. Conc. No. 5013
Humbled: to make low
From the Greek word 'tapeinoó' (pronounced tap-i-no'-o): stoops to become a servant.
Now, be honest with yourself. When was the last time you humbled yourself and did what God was asking you to do?
Jesus humbled Himself. He put aside the comforts of His home and went on a journey. A journey whose earthly journey began in a stable. A journey whose ministry of being the gospel led to the cross, the tomb and the garden.
He chose to leave the beautifulness of heaven and come to a sinful world that He might die on the cross for us. He chose the nails. He chose to be obedient to His Father. He chose what He chose for the sake of Love.
John 3:16,17
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.
John 1:24
The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!
Isaiah 53:5
But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.
Willingly. Obediently. By choice. Making an independent decision to do what His heavenly Father was asking Him to do.
Just as, when God calls each of us to do a task, we must each make that same independent decision to hear, trust and obey. The decision to choose between making a right godly choice and making the decision to do what we want to do is accomplished on a day to day basis. All day long we are tempted to sin, to turn against God and live in rebellion. But all day long, God waits for us to turn to Him for help.
Just as, when God calls each of us to do a task, we must each make that same independent decision to hear, trust and obey. The decision to choose between making a right godly choice and making the decision to do what we want to do is accomplished on a day to day basis. All day long we are tempted to sin, to turn against God and live in rebellion. But all day long, God waits for us to turn to Him for help.
He's not pushy and will not go where He is not wanted. Do you want God in your life? Then you need to ask Him to come into the heart of your life: the center of our being needs to be the center where He is being, living, loving.
Lord, I have failed You many times, please forgive me. Help me to live a humble and obedient life, as I follow You in my journey. I, too, am a wayfaring stranger. And I need You with me day and night. Not my will but Yours be done.
In Jesus' Precious Name,
Amen.
Wayfaring Stranger
He Chose The Nails
O The Deep, Deep Love of Jesus
The Old Rugged Cross
Lamb of God, Holy One
Wounded One & One Found Worthy
The Old Rugged Cross Made The Difference
I Know Whom I Have Believed
