Purposeful
- 1 Peter 2:21 tells us that Jesus is our EXAMPLE, and we are to follow in HIS steps. That word “example” is the Greek Word “hupogrammos”, which means “a pattern, a writing to be copied such as letters of the alphabet given to beginners as a learning aid.” (Strong’s) In other words, Jesus is who we are to pattern ourselves after. I don't know about you, but when I think about what I know about Jesus, I know I fall well short of following His example. In these times we just don't wash other's feet. So how can I adjust that to my life today. Not trying to diminish the act, but purpose to love others in such a powerful way. That is something for us each to reflect on. I am thinking well, how do I look on others who are different from myself? Can I imagine getting so close to that homeless woman to desire to wash her feet, how about to offer her a kind word, demonstrate through my concern for her that I really care. ... instead of automatically thinking the worst about her.. about her motives; I might wonder about the circumstances that brought her to such a low place. At least offer to prayer for her and offer her some kindness.. that would be up to each one of us.
“Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.” Philippians 1:27 If you are saved, you must realize the cost of your salvation.. reflect.. do I live a pleasing life that shows I appreciate the cost by which I was saved and am willing to share a gospel word with someone who needs that same miracle in their life!..
“Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.” Philippians 2:1-2 Wow, yes, I want fellowship in the Spirit with my Redeemer.. and I want His joy to be complete in my actions .. to be of the same mind.. maintaining the same love for Him and others, intent on what one purpose?.. I cannot help but realize that it is to share the Good news of what I have in Him that others will not be lost! I confess I am not good at this, but the longer I live the more I realize I don't have to be good at it. I just need to find a way to do it. I'll
pray for you of YOU will pray for me to be a good steward of what Christ has given us!
“Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” Philippians 2:3-4
Putting others first is not quite as hard to do, and we should look for places we can do it easily, and as we do it, it will get easier to do all the time.. I think allowing someone to go before you at the check out is a place to start, offering someone else that last slice of cake I had my eye on at the dinner party dessert table, holding the doors for others, paying things forward. the list does go on.. and I smile as I write and consider each thing. Problem is don't get so caught up on self that when the time comes you miss the opportunity!We are self centered beings.
“Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men.” Philippians 2:5-7
Christ certainly wasn't self centered.. what he gave up to save us, to have us as His friends and children, to love us so unconditionally. I think it really is something to reflect on.. How can I be more like Him?
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