Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves. Philippians 2:3 NIV
Everything we need to know about walking with Christ Jesus, in servitude, is set in his example. We need to live as Jesus did! A true measure of servitude, quite often, is a willingness to do things we simply do not want to do. To place others needs ahead of our own is not always easy, however, it is required, if we are to emulate Christ Jesus our Lord.
Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. Philippians 2:4 NIV
Does anyone live this out greater than our Lord? He went to the cross for our redemption, ransoming us from death!
Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant. Philippians 2:6-7a NIV
We must always remember why we are here, to serve HIM! We pursue not what we’d like to do, but whatever he desires of us, to glorify HIM! He made the ultimate sacrifice, and desires that we follow his example. Our Lord knows it is not always our will to do what is required of us by God, but it is his will that need be done.
Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him. On reaching the place, he said to them, “Pray that you will not fall into temptation.” He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” Luke 22:39-42 NIV
Yes, even our Lord needed reassurance from the Father before he gave his life for us. What an amazing love, and level of servitude!
While we cannot be as our Lord Jesus, we can certainly emulate his desire and willingness to do all the Father desired of him, to be the good servant.
Jesus explains this love, when he says;
Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. Matt 20:28 NIV
Remember, it is often what we DO NOT want to do, that will be exactly what we need to do, to glorify our Lord and God, Christ Jesus.
For isn’t the goal to eventually, at the time of HIS choosing, hear these words come from his lips, “Well done, good and faithful servant!”
Remember we are here for HIM!
Love one another.
Barnabas
Special thanks for this guest submission by Barnabas.
Great reminder that as we serve others, we ARE serving Him!