Daily Devotionals

In or Out Week 1 Tuesday

You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Philippians 2:5

A common saying that writers are taught is the phrase, “show, don’t tell.” For example, if you can show that someone is happy by describing the huge smile on their face rather than simply saying “they are happy,” readers get a better picture of how that person is feeling. This saying extends beyond writing. It is also true in many areas of life. The apostle Paul understood this in Philippians 2. Because of this, Paul not only told readers what attitudes to have, he showed them by pointing them to Jesus. 

“You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had,” Paul wrote in Philippians 2 (verse 5). He continued by writing about Jesus. He explained that Jesus was humble, obedient, a servant, and so, so much more. It is Jesus’ attitude and example that you and I are called to have as well. We are called to be like Christ, living humbly, obedient, sacrificially, and more. This is the attitude that we are called to have in every circumstance that we face.

 If we want to know how to act and live and what attitudes to have, we only have to look to Jesus. We can look at stories and teachings about Him and His attitude throughout Scripture. He serves as a supreme example for each one of us. Just as Jesus loved, cared for others, lived humbly, fought for justice, and more, we are to live. We can follow the examples that He modeled for us.

Through even the most difficult, unimaginable circumstances, Jesus remained consistent with His character. He loved when most would have hated, forgave when most would not have forgiven, and sacrificed when most would have fought to save their own lives. As He lived and modeled this attitude for us, He offered the invitation for His followers to join Him. As followers, we have the honor and privilege to follow His example and His attitude.

Moving Toward Action

Read through the Philippians 2 description of Jesus. Then, make a list of the attitude He demonstrated. After making your list, pray. Ask God to help you have the same attitude and character traits as Jesus, even in the middle of very difficult circumstances. As you go throughout your week, keep your eyes open, looking for opportunities to show the attitude of Jesus.

Going Deeper

Philippians 2:1-11 (NLT)

Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.

You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.

Though he was God,

he did not think of equality with God

as something to cling to.

Instead, he gave up his divine privileges;

he took the humble position of a slave

and was born as a human being.

When he appeared in human form,

he humbled himself in obedience to God

and died a criminal’s death on a cross.

Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor

and gave him the name above all other names,

that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,

in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord,

to the glory of God the Father,