Philippians 2:5-13 (NIV)

5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; 7 rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death — even death on a cross! 9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name,
10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 12 Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.

Reflection:

In this passage, Paul encourages us to “have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.” In other words, we’re to think of ourselves in the way that Jesus thought of Himself – a humble servant following the will of God. We’re to have the same mindset as Christ and continue to keep on living in obedient response to Him. But, how is that possible when we feel like we lose more battles than we win? It’s possible because it is God Himself at work in us giving us the desire and power to do what pleases Him.

Response:

Let’s confess to the Lord our need of Him and as we do so, let’s invite the Lord’s Spirit to fill us again. As He fills us, let’s pray for our missional groups and campuses; that we would trust God’s work in us giving us the desire and power to do what pleases Him.