"Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.
Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (NKJV)
This important passage presents an important description of Jesus's example in which he led with humility and sincerity.
The King of kings and Lord of lords humbled himself to walk as an example before men.
To lead like Christ means that you understand that you must
1. recognize the power of your influence;
Recognize it or not, your life is a powerful influence on others.
2. choose to serve rather than be served;
Once a parent, one no longer makes decisions for himself alone. He must serve.
3. communicate feelings and instruction often, clearly, and with compassion;
Don't allow loved ones to assume you love them.
4. spend time investing in relationships;
Relationships are like bank accounts. If you only withdraw without making deposits, you'll soon be in trouble. Invest in relationships that matter most.
5. model spiritual excellence in all you do;
Call before you dig to keep life from blowing up in your face.
[Pastor
related an incident in which he cut a gas main with a post-hole
digger. No injuries, other than his pride, but instructive.]
What can you do to improve your influence, to make the spiritual atmosphere of your life better? Tend to the little things. Call before you dig.
What if we lived and led like Jesus Christ?
Pastor Johnnie Blair
Sunday morning
4 comments:
I think you need to add to #3...it is also important to communicate when you need something from a loved one. They don't know if you are hurt, needing, or wanting something from others.
Good lesson today.
Lin, Pastor's message included that in the package much more thoroughly than my sermon notes do. Yes, it was excellent. We need to aspire to emulate and follow Christ's example.
Good points, all. I think the hardest for many is to serve rather than be served, causing relationships to become lopsided. At least you heard a sermon concerning family on Father's Day. It's apparently hard for some to connect special days with Scripture.
Vee, it was a timely and well-timed message. You and I have to keep in mind that corporate worship has evolved since we were kids.
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