Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus,

who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death – even death on a cross. Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Philippians 2:5-11

Do you know what it feels like to be sent from the major leagues to the minor leagues? That is what Jesus did, and He accepted it. It is a life lesson. It is humbling to be reduced in rank, privilege, or responsibility. But these things may come as part of God’s training in our lives. So, humble yourself before the mighty hand of God, and in due course He will exalt you.

Humility and submission to God are not signs of weakness, but evidence of Christlike power and character. We can receive courage and strength from Jesus Himself, who knows how it feels to be "sent down."

The mighty architect of the universe

became the humble

Carpenter of Nazareth.

Our Daily Bread – September 21, 2004