The Example of Jesus Christ…..He existed in the form of God, yet he gave no thought to seizing equality with God as his supreme prize. Instead he emptied himself of his outward glory by reducing himself to the form of a lowly servant. He became human! He humbled himself and became vulnerable, choosing to be revealed as a man and was obedient. He was a perfect example, even in his death—a criminal’s death by crucifixion! Philippians 2:6-7, The passion translation
Many need to read this, meditating upon it with Holy Spirit opening their eyes to it.
A personal reflection…
One day a Holy conviction shook my heart. Holy Spirit pointed out how I was chasing the recognition, respect and honor of man – basically seeking my own glory.
He showed me how I had spent years studying the fundamentals of the Church i.e. it’s traditions, rituals & culture, not to glorify God the Father rather to draw attention to how knowledgeable I was.
In reality I had become very heart hardened religious fool, an unknowing puppet in the evil ones hands.
I would pray loud long prayers not to bring healing or deliverance to people rather to draw attention to how great I was at praying.
I am so thankful that the Father loves me enough to bring correction and discipline when needed.
My whole desire today is to draw people’s attention to look upon the Lord, for He alone is able to rescue them, to bring healing & deliverance.
He alone is worthy of all the Praise, Honor & Glory!!!
Now, having been captivated by the spirit of religion for so many years, I can recognize it quickly, I can even smell it’s ugly evil presence.
This can be good or be bad, depending on whether one chooses to walk in a high level of mercy.
Or one can incorrectly sit and remain eating from the tree of of the knowledge of good & evil or choose to eat from the tree of life.
Learning from the example Jesus lived as us, I am so thankful & walk daily dependant upon Holy Spirit guidance to remind me it is not the person rather it is the spirit that is holding them in the same prison that it held me in for twelve + years ref 2 Corinthains 10:4, Ephesians 6:12.
Russ Welch
Director of Beaches Rescue & Recovery Mission
Radical Disciples - A Remnant Revolution 