Paul

December 12

Philippians 2:1-11

Being like Jesus

Philippians is a letter Paul wrote to the church he started in Philippi. In this letter, Paul shows them how that true joy can only come from following Jesus.

He writes: “If you are encouraged from being brought together by Christ, if you are comforted by His love and enjoy the closeness of the Spirit, and if you are tenderhearted and sensitive towards others, then make me truly happy by working together towards one goal. Don’t be selfish and don’t try to make a good impression on others, but be humble and think of others as being better than yourselves.

Your attitude should be the same as that of Jesus Christ, who, having the nature of God, did not demand to be equal with God, but left His glory to become a servant here on earth. He was obedient to His Father and gave His life for us on the cross. Because He was willing to do this, God raised Him up to be above all and gave Him a name that is greater than any other name.”

Can I really be like Jesus?

Does Paul really mean that we should have the same attitude as that of Jesus? How can we be as caring and forgiving as He is, and how can we be completely humble and obedient at all times?

Well, the Bible would not tell us to do something if it were not possible to do. Read Philippians 2:2 again and you will see that the one thing that helps us to have the right attitude is LOVE. Jesus’ love for God and His love for us is the reason His attitude pleases God.

If you are struggling to have the right attitude you may need more of God’s love in your heart. God is the source of love. Love flows from Him like a never ending spring of water, so ask Him to fill you with His love. Then start showing that love in practical ways, and your attitude will become more and more like that of Jesus.

Verse for today

… God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. Romans 5:5