Christ "Emptied Himself"

When we looked at Philippians 2:5 we found that it encouraged the reader to “have the mind of Christ”, that is, to have the same attitude that he possesses.  The verses immediately following describe two of Christ’s attitudes.  

Philippians 2:6–8 (HCSB)
6 who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be used for His own advantage. 7 Instead He emptied Himself by assuming the form of a slave, taking on the likeness of men. And when He had come as a man in His external form, 8 He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death— even to death on a cross.

Jesus did not consider using that fact that he was part of the Trinity, the very Son
of God, for his own benefit while he lived on earth. Quite the opposite, Jesus
humbled himself.  He “emptied himself”. Christ set aside all thoughts of the privileges that were rightfully his as the Son of God, and considered himself a slave.  He took on the demeanor of a slave.  He made himself available to the wants and needs of those he served. He willingly left his heavenly throne, to live as a common man, walk dusty streets, endure hurtful criticism, and was misunderstood by those who loved him most.

He was obedient to the will of God and submitted himself to physical death on a
cross; a death that included all the pain that accompanied a crucifixion. This was his supreme act of love given freely for us. 
 
I recently heard the testimony of Kathie Moss, the mother of Megan, a young woman who was facing a health crisis a few years ago.  Megan, as a high school
student, had written in her journal about her desire to be used of God.  She indicated that she would obey God so that others would come to know Jesus.  Megan had a history of heart problems and at the age of 24, this condition could have taken her life. God answered her prayer, and the prayers of thousands of others around the world.  Because of the miracle God performed, her story of faith was told through all forms of media; television, radio, newspaper, internet, and a book.  When Megan wrote those words in her journal as a teenager, she had no idea how God word answer her prayer.  However, she meant every word. You can read her story in the book Megan’s Heart, by Sharon Bushey.

As a teenager, Megan emptied herself before God for his use.  Her love for
Christ was so deep and so complete that she held nothing back.  She humbled
herself and became obedient to Christ.

As a person who follows Christ, there are two questions that I need to answer in
light of these verses. 

How do I empty myself for Christ? 
Am I being obedient to the leading of the Lord every day?

Dear Lord, help me to empty myself for you.  Help me to humble myself to serve
others, and to be willing to obey you, no matter what circumstances you allow in
my life.


 

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