Today’s Devotion is based on Joy in the Journey – Week 4 – Humility (WATCH HERE)
Zig Ziglar, the personal growth and motivational speaker, said, “Your attitude, more than your aptitude, determines your altitude.”
As a sophomore in high school, Michael Jordan tried out for the varsity basketball team—but was cut. He didn’t make it. At the time, he was shorter and less physically developed than other players.
Instead of quitting or sulking, Jordan went home and cried—but then he resolved to outwork everyone. He practiced every morning and evening, honing his skills with unrelenting discipline.
By his senior year, he made varsity, earned a scholarship to North Carolina, and later became arguably the greatest basketball player of all time, winning six NBA championships and earning two Olympic gold medals.
Jordan didn’t let failure define him. He didn’t embrace an attitude of failure, but rather an attitude of hard work and determination to outwork and out perform all his competitors.
Attitude is important.
Attitude is important to find joy in our journey through life.
The question is, “What is the attitude I am to have?”
Paul gives inspired direction: “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.”
The Greek word for “attitude” (or “mind” in some translations) refers to a deep, settled way of thinking that influences everything else—how we respond, relate, and live. It’s not about pretending to be nice; it’s about having the very heart of Christ take root in us.
Paul doesn’t say to “behave” like Jesus, but rather have the same mindset as Jesus. The reality is that when our mind and heart are aligned to Christ, the actions will follow in line with Christ as well.
Previously, Paul had encouraged: 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. (Philippians 2:3-4)
Paul knew that the ability of the Philippians and for us to have this type of interaction with others could only come when our heart and mind were guided by the heart and mind of Christ.
He then continues to describe the attitude and the action that flowed from that attitude (We will explore this more as the week progresses):
6 Who, being in very nature God,
did not consider equality with God something to be grasped,
7 but made himself nothing,
taking the very nature of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
8 And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
and became obedient to death—
even death on a cross!
The attitude of Jesus is nothing but amazing. To capture it in our own hearts is nothing but a blessing!
Apply: Ask yourself: What is my attitude reflecting? Is it self-focused or Christ-focused? Is it defensive or humble? Is it entitled or grateful?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me to have Your mindset today. Make me humble, obedient, and loving in how I treat others. Remove selfish pride and teach me to live like You. Shape my heart so that my thoughts, words, and actions reflect Your grace. In Your name I pray, Amen.