Jesus did not think of Himself; He thought of others. His attitude was that of unselfish concern for others. This is “the mind of Christ,” an attitude that says, “I cannot keep my privileges for myself, I must use them for others; and to do this, I will gladly lay them aside and pay whatever price is necessary.”

A reporter was interviewing a successful job counselor who had placed hundreds of workers in their vocations quite happily. When asked the secret of his success, the man replied: “If you want to find out what a worker is really like, don’t give him responsibilities—give him privileges.

Most people can handle responsibilities if you pay them enough, but it takes a real leader to handle privileges. A leader will use his privileges to help others and build the organization; a lesser man will use privileges to promote himself.” Jesus used His heavenly privileges for the sake of others—for our sake.

Jesus said: “Whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave; just as the Son of man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:26-28, NASB).

Also read: Mark 9:35; John 13:4-17; Romans 15:1-3; 2 Corinthians 8:9; Philippians 2:3, 5-8.

Action assignment: List traits that you know or believe Jesus had, traits that you wish to develop more in your life. Ask God to help you be more Christlike.

WARREN W. WIERSBE
www.backtothebible.in