Our Daily Bread 8 June 2020 Devotional
Topic: Truly Humble, Truly Great
Bible in a Year: 2 Chronicles 30–31, John 18:1–18
Key Verse: [Christ Jesus] made himself nothing. – Philippians 2:7
Today’s Scripture: Philippians 2:1–11 (NIV)
Insight: Many scholars believe that Philippians 2:6–11 is an example of one of the earliest Christian hymns. Several things contribute to that theory. According to The New Bible Commentary, these verses can be divided into six stanzas formed by three lines each. Additionally, the stanzas read in a very rhythmic and musical way. While not the only place in the New Testament where we see possible ancient hymns, this apparent song describing Jesus speaks deeply into the condition of the Philippian church where there was self-seeking and self-advancement that needed correcting (see 2:3–4; 4:2–3).
Our Daily Bread 8 June 2020 Devotional for Monday
As the American Revolution concluded with England’s improbable surrender, many politicians and military leaders maneuvered to make General George Washington a new monarch. The world watched, wondering if Washington would stick to his ideals of freedom and liberty when absolute power was within his grasp. England’s King George III saw another reality, however. He was convinced that if Washington resisted the power pull and returned to his Virginia farm, he would be “the greatest man in the world.” The king knew that the greatness evidenced in resisting the allure to power is a sign of true nobility and significance.
Paul knew this same truth and encouraged us to follow Christ’s humble way. Even though Jesus was “in very nature God,” he “did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage” (Philippians 2:6). Instead, He surrendered His power, became “a servant” and “humbled himself by becoming obedient to death” (vv. 7–8). The One who held all power surrendered every bit of it for the sake of love.
And yet, in the ultimate reversal, God exalted Christ from a criminal’s cross “to the highest place” (v. 9). Jesus, who could demand our praise or force us to be obedient, laid down His power in a breathtaking act that won our worship and devotion. Through absolute humility, Jesus demonstrated true greatness, turning the world upside down.
Reflect & Pray
How does the depth of Jesus’ humility surprise you? How does His humility force you to reconsider your definition of greatness?
Thank You, Jesus, that in Your most destitute and (seemingly) disgraceful moment, You demonstrated Your true power and greatness.
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Our Daily Bread 8 June 2020 Devotional for Monday – Truly Humble, Truly Great, was written by Winn Collier (Our Daily Bread Ministries)