Embracing Joyful Transformation Through Humility in Christ

Devotional

Day 1: Jesus' Humility as Our Model

Jesus, though fully God, did not cling to His divine privileges but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant and becoming obedient to death on a cross. This ultimate act of humility and love is our model for living selflessly. Reflecting on Jesus' humility should continually shape our actions and attitudes. Jesus' humility is not just a historical fact but a living example for us to follow. His willingness to set aside His divine rights and embrace the role of a servant challenges us to reconsider our own attitudes towards power, privilege, and service.

In our daily lives, we often encounter situations where we can choose to assert our rights or to serve others. Jesus' example calls us to choose the latter, to prioritize love and service over self-interest. This is not an easy path, but it is the path to true joy and unity. As we reflect on Jesus' humility, we are reminded that our worth is not found in our status or achievements but in our identity as beloved children of God. [08:36]

Philippians 2:5-7 (ESV): "Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men."

Reflection: In what areas of your life are you clinging to your rights or privileges? How can you follow Jesus' example of humility and service today?

Day 2: The Danger of Selfish Ambition

Paul warns against selfish ambition and conceit, describing them as empty glory. Selfishness leads to division and dissatisfaction, while true joy and unity are found in selflessness and humility. We are called to count others more significant than ourselves and look to their interests. Selfish ambition is a subtle but powerful force that can disrupt relationships and communities. It often manifests in the desire for recognition, power, or control, leading to competition and conflict.

In contrast, Paul calls us to a life of humility and selflessness, where we prioritize the needs and interests of others. This is not about denying our own needs but about recognizing the value and dignity of others. When we live this way, we create an environment of mutual respect and support, where true joy and unity can flourish. [14:12]

James 3:16-17 (ESV): "For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere."

Reflection: Think of a recent situation where you acted out of selfish ambition. How could you have approached it differently with humility and selflessness?

Day 3: Unity Through Humility

Unity in the church is not about uniformity but about having the same mind and love, working together towards the same goal with a similar heart and disposition. This unity is grounded in our shared experience of Jesus' love and humility. True unity is not about everyone being the same but about everyone being united in purpose and love. It is about recognizing our differences and valuing them as part of the rich tapestry of the body of Christ.

When we embrace humility, we create space for others to contribute their unique gifts and perspectives. This kind of unity is powerful because it reflects the heart of God, who values diversity and works through it to accomplish His purposes. As we strive for unity, we must continually look to Jesus, whose love and humility are the foundation of our shared life together. [21:50]

Ephesians 4:2-3 (ESV): "With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."

Reflection: How can you contribute to the unity of your church community this week? What steps can you take to foster a spirit of humility and love?

Day 4: Practical Humility

Humility is not just an inward posture but is expressed in our actions. We are called to prioritize others in our families, workplaces, and church community, listening, encouraging, and caring for one another. This tangible expression of humility brings joy and unity. Practical humility means putting others' needs ahead of our own in concrete ways. It means being attentive to the needs of those around us and taking action to meet those needs.

This could be as simple as offering a listening ear, providing a word of encouragement, or helping with a practical task. When we live this way, we create a culture of care and support, where everyone feels valued and loved. This kind of community is a powerful witness to the love of Christ and brings joy and unity to all who are part of it. [19:47]

Romans 12:10 (ESV): "Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor."

Reflection: Identify one person in your life who could use some encouragement or practical help. How can you show them the love of Christ through your actions today?

Day 5: Empowered by Jesus' Example

Reflecting on Jesus' humility and love should continually shape our actions and attitudes. As we come to the table to celebrate communion, we are reminded of Jesus' sacrifice and are empowered to live humble lives, following His example. Jesus' example is not just a model to admire but a source of empowerment for our daily lives. His sacrifice on the cross is a powerful reminder of the depth of His love and the extent of His humility.

As we reflect on His example, we are called to follow in His footsteps, living lives of humility and service. This is not something we can do in our own strength but something we are empowered to do through the Holy Spirit. As we come to the table to celebrate communion, we are reminded of Jesus' sacrifice and are strengthened to live out His example in our daily lives. [27:05]

1 Peter 2:21-23 (ESV): "For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly."

Reflection: As you reflect on Jesus' sacrifice, what specific steps can you take to follow His example of humility and love in your daily life? How can you rely on the Holy Spirit to empower you in this journey?

Sermon Summary

### Summary

Good morning, Bridge family. Today, we delved into the theme of "Joyful Transformation" as we continued our journey through the book of Philippians. This letter from Paul to a beloved church he helped start is filled with his love, encouragement, and a call to find joy and unity in Christ. Our focus was on Philippians 2:1-11, where Paul addresses the issues of self-centeredness and division within the church, urging them to ground their unity and humility in the example of Jesus.

The central message is that because Jesus humbled Himself out of love for us, we should pursue the same humility together. Jesus, who was fully God, did not cling to His divine privileges but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant and becoming obedient to the point of death on a cross. This ultimate act of humility and love is the foundation for our call to live selflessly.

Paul's exhortation is clear: do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. This is countercultural and challenging, but it is only possible through the example and empowerment of Jesus. Selfishness leads to division and empty glory, while true joy and unity are found in selflessness and humility.

We are called to live out this humility in tangible ways, prioritizing others in our families, workplaces, and church community. This means listening, encouraging, and caring for one another, putting others' needs ahead of our own. Unity in the church is not about uniformity but about having the same mind and love, working together towards the same goal with a similar heart and disposition.

Reflecting on Jesus' humility and love should continually shape our actions and attitudes. As we come to the table to celebrate communion, we are reminded of Jesus' sacrifice and are empowered to live humble lives, following His example.

###

Key Takeaways

1. Jesus' Humility as Our Model: Jesus, though fully God, did not cling to His divine privileges but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant and becoming obedient to death on a cross. This ultimate act of humility and love is our model for living selflessly. Reflecting on Jesus' humility should continually shape our actions and attitudes. [08:36]
2. The Danger of Selfish Ambition: Paul warns against selfish ambition and conceit, describing them as empty glory. Selfishness leads to division and dissatisfaction, while true joy and unity are found in selflessness and humility. We are called to count others more significant than ourselves and look to their interests. [14:12]
3. Unity Through Humility: Unity in the church is not about uniformity but about having the same mind and love, working together towards the same goal with a similar heart and disposition. This unity is grounded in our shared experience of Jesus' love and humility. [21:50]
4. Practical Humility: Humility is not just an inward posture but is expressed in our actions. We are called to prioritize others in our families, workplaces, and church community, listening, encouraging, and caring for one another. This tangible expression of humility brings joy and unity. [19:47]
5. Empowered by Jesus' Example: Reflecting on Jesus' humility and love should continually shape our actions and attitudes. As we come to the table to celebrate communion, we are reminded of Jesus' sacrifice and are empowered to live humble lives, following His example. [27:05]
### [27:05]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[01:45] - Introduction and Personal Story
[03:32] - The Temptation of Self-Centeredness
[05:12] - Reading Philippians 2:1-11
[07:07] - Prayer and Reflection
[08:36] - Jesus' Humility and Love
[10:12] - The Contrast with Other Gods
[12:04] - Augustine's Quote on Jesus' Humility
[14:12] - The Call to Selflessness
[16:15] - The Danger of Selfish Ambition
[18:01] - Practical Humility
[19:47] - Tangible Expressions of Humility
[21:50] - Unity Through Humility
[23:39] - The Beauty of Unified Diversity
[25:36] - Loving and Serving Each Other
[27:05] - Reflecting on Jesus' Example
[28:27] - Jesus of the Scars
[29:17] - Communion and Closing Remarks

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What specific actions does Paul encourage the Philippians to take in Philippians 2:1-4 to promote unity and humility within the church?
How does Paul describe Jesus' humility and obedience in Philippians 2:5-8?
According to Philippians 2:9-11, what was the result of Jesus' humility and obedience?

Interpretation Questions

Why does Paul emphasize the importance of having the same mind and love among the believers in Philippians 2:2? How does this contribute to unity in the church? [21:50]
What does Paul mean by "empty glory" in Philippians 2:3, and how does this concept relate to selfish ambition and conceit? [16:15]
How does Jesus' example of humility and obedience in Philippians 2:5-8 serve as a model for believers' behavior and attitudes? [08:36]

Application Questions

Reflect on a time when you acted out of selfish ambition or conceit. How did it affect your relationships with others? What steps can you take to prioritize humility in similar situations in the future? [14:12]
In what ways can you actively count others more significant than yourself in your daily life? Think of specific actions you can take in your family, workplace, or church community this week. [19:47]
How can you foster unity within your small group or church community without expecting uniformity? What practical steps can you take to appreciate and encourage the diverse gifts and perspectives of others? [23:39]
Jesus' humility led Him to serve others selflessly, even to the point of death. How can you follow His example in your own life? Identify one area where you can serve others more selflessly this week. [08:36]
Reflect on the concept of "empty glory" and how it contrasts with true joy and unity found in selflessness and humility. How can you shift your focus from seeking personal recognition to genuinely serving others? [16:15]
During the next communion service, how can you use this time to reflect on Jesus' sacrifice and renew your commitment to living a humble and selfless life? [27:05]
Think about someone in your life who may feel overlooked or undervalued. What specific actions can you take to show them that they are significant and loved? [19:47]

Sermon Clips

### Quotes for Outreach

1. "Because Jesus humbled himself out of love for us, we should pursue the same humility together. I'll say it one more time. Because Jesus humbled himself out of love for us, we should pursue the same humility together." [05:12] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "Jesus shows us he gave up his privileges. He was living in perfect relationship with God the Father and with the Holy Spirit in eternity. And he entered into the world became a poor Jewish baby bound for the cross. His love drove him to a position of weakness." [09:32] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "The humility of Jesus goes beyond explanation. And it was out of his love that he willingly chose to go low. That we may know his love and be saved and transformed." [12:04] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "Some of us find it easy to believe that for God so loved the world, but we find it hard to believe that God loved us. That God actually likes us. That he actually wants to spend time with us. That he was purposeful in his love. I want you to know that today. Jesus' love is for you." [13:00] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "There is a joy that is richer and deeper than self-centered desire. That's what Paul longs for us to experience. Joy that is richer and deeper than just our own name, our own comfort, our own pocketbook. We should pursue the humility of Jesus that puts others before ourselves." [17:00] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

### Quotes for Members

1. "The flow of the passage is kind of like this. Here are the realities you experience in Jesus. Love, comfort, the presence of the Holy Spirit. And those realities should produce a unity of mind and spirit. A unity together. And that unity leads to selfless hearts and selfless lives. And this selfless heart and selfless life is empowered and modeled by Jesus himself." [07:07] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "Humility in the Bible is not primarily an inward posture of the heart. It has an outward look and feel to it. It's tangible. The humble in the Bible are those who are willing to embrace humble circumstances and to be associated with those of low and low. That's what Jesus did in this passage. He got low. Humility isn't just a way of thinking, but it's expressed in our actions." [19:47] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "Union with Jesus leads to unity with his body, the church. It leads to unity of mission. It leads to unity as a family. This humility, this different attitude, this way of living is not something pursued in isolation, but something we need each other to learn and grow in." [22:50] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "Reflect again and again on Jesus. Look to him. Be unified with him. Have this mind among you, which is yours in Christ Jesus. If our faith is in Jesus, we have been unified with him. And we're asking that his mind, his desires, his loves continue to shape ours." [27:05] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "Jesus, who was exalted in his weakness, who brought life, who brought life from death, has scars in his resurrected body. That we may know he doesn't encourage humility in us from a place of theory, but displayed it with his very life. That we might have life and joy in the one who went to the cross out of love for us." [29:17] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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