Humble submission

Okay, it is time to put in another picture of our cute dog, Mr. Knightley. Isn't he the sweetest thing? If anyone else wants pictures of their cute creatures and/or children posted, just pass them along.

I actually used this picture because we're talking about humility today, and doesn't he just look so humble? Just waiting for someone to say "okay" and let him up from his "sit". Such a submissive little guy. Some of the time. Just like me, some of the time. The truth is, I am absolutely set on advancing and exalting myself, and having things my way most of the time. Aren't you? And then I fix my eyes on Jesus and this is what I see: "Though he was in the form of God, he did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross." (Philippians 2:6-8) Oh my. This is who I am to be like, to reflect, on a daily basis in my dealings with all sorts of people. Can I do it? Would God ask me to do something He doesn't also equip me to do? He knows far better than I that I am dust.

In the very next paragraph, we are told to "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling [i.e.get serious about it!], for it is God who works in you both to will and to work for his good pleasure." I practice the disciplines while He works His image into my character and my actions. He is the vine, we are the branches that bear His fruit. Have His mind among yourselves. (from Philippians 2:5)