Humbled Himself
Adopt the same attitude as that of Christ Jesus, who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be exploited. Instead he emptied himself by assuming the form of a servant, taking on the likeness of humanity. And when he had come as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death–even to death on a cross.
Philippians 2:5-8 (CSB)
Humility is a key component of the Christian walk. The Lord's call to a life of humility is exemplified by Christ. The Apostle Paul informed the Philippians that Christ is the prime example of how to live humbly. The call to “adopt the same attitude as that of Christ Jesus” reveals both an expectation for believers and a truth concerning Jesus.
JESUS UNDERSTOOD HIS POSITION
Jesus recognized His role within the Trinity and remained devoted to the Father. In the act of creation, Jesus created as the Father spoke. While on earth, Jesus submitted to and followed the commands and leadership of the Father. Though He is God, Jesus never lost sight of His position within the Trinity.
Jesus exemplifies the significance of understanding our identity in relation to our position before the Father. We should aspire to live in a way that reflects Christ's humility by being mindful of our standing before the Lord. When we follow Christ's example, we embrace the essence of His humility.
JESUS SURRENDERED OBEDIENTLY
The incarnation revealed Christ's obedience, stemming from His humility. Jesus willingly emptied Himself to follow the commands and plans of the Father. This act of self-emptying does not imply that Jesus ceased to be God; rather, it means that He voluntarily took on the form of humanity and accepted the limitations of human
existence, such as the need for food and sleep.
Jesus exemplified the importance of embracing genuine humility to follow the
Lord's leading and plans in our lives. We must remain prepared to surrender ourselves to the Lord and trust His plans wholeheartedly.
JESUS LIVED OUT HUMILITY
Jesus exemplified humility by enduring death on the cross to provide a path to salvation. This act of sacrifice was rooted in His profound love for humanity. We must acknowledge that our humility in life should be motivated by our love for the Lord and for others. The life of humility lived by Christ demonstrates the attitude of humility that we must seek in our lives.
QUESTIONS
1. How does Christ model humility in His incarnation and death?
2. What hinders us from living a life of humility?
