Today's Verse - Philippians 2:5, 7-8 (KJV)

But [Jesus] made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

—Philippians 2:5, 7-8 (KJV)

Thoughts on Today's Verse...​

Christianity is not for wimps or the faint-hearted. Our example, Jesus, "made himself nothing... taking the very nature of a servant... humbled himself... and became obedient to death - even death on a cross!" That's tough stuff. What's more, he is our example of how to live and sacrifice for others. The story of Jesus may begin with a sweet child, a tender virgin girl, and a loving, strong man who protected them. However, it also starts with his crib being the trough where animals ate their food, while an evil king was plotting to murder him. The birth stories of Jesus are precious and powerful. They are not, however, saccharine-sweet fake sentiment. Jesus' way of life is about servants who are willing to pay the price to redeem the ungrateful and undeserving, and disciples who are different because they know their Redeemer and are determined to become like their Teacher, Savior, and Lord (Luke 6:40).

My Prayer...​

Almighty God, loving Father, thank you for placing the gospel story in the real world where I live. Jesus, thank you for being a Savior who has come into my world and faced its toughest edges and worst ugliness. Help me, please, as I learn to be sacrificial, obedient, redemptive, and humble so that I can be used to help others find your grace. I pray. Amen.

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.

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[The Encourager]

God, I ask You in Jesus' name to securely anchor me in Your Word so that I may come to know You better and trust You with all my heart. Bless me with the desire to read, listen, and meditate upon Your Word daily. Let me find myself praying, singing, and confessing Your Word over my life. Let Your Word live, breathe, move, and dwell richly within me. Let Your Word develop secure, deep roots within me that cannot wither and die. Let Your Word strengthen and encourage me. So that I will be able to stand and fight the good fight of faith. Let Your Word wash and cleanse me of everything in my life that doesn't please You. God give me the love, desire, creative ways, and the follow through to love spending time with You in Your Word. Let it become a daily habit of mind to spend time with You in Your Word. God all that I have asked of You in this prayer, please do the same for the writer of this prayer and all those I love and care about.