
Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness, and being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death - even death on the cross! Philippians 2:5 - 8
What qualifies us for selection by God? I believe it is found in our daily pursuits? From scripture we know that Christ was selected (chosen) by God to ratify our redemption. His pursuits on earth where simple...to seek and save that which is lost.
This begs the question regarding our selection...Who are we seeking? What are we seeking? And why are we seeking? Do we have the mind of Christ? ...the humility that esteems others more valuable than ourselves or selfish pursuits. In order to fulfill "the call" of selection, we must be Christ-minded.
Jesus Christ endured the persecution, shame, disgrace; humiliation and even death on the cross because of His selection. Many of us are puffed up by the knowledge that we are "called." However, the calling is the first step...successful purging - delivers us into our selection. The fiery trials of persecution qualify us for selection. If you believe that you have been chosen by God, then you must bear the disgrace of the cross. If you are unwilling to endure persecution outside and within the body of Christ, you might very well forfeit your selection. Once you embrace the truth that suffering is part and parcel of our call and ultimate selection, then you can view your pain from a totally different perspective. You can say with deepest sincerity that my light and momentary afflictions do not compare to the glory that will be revealed in the day of Christ return.
I know that this is a heavy word. But it is a Word that has been delivered in love...tough love to encourage you to press on.
Scripture taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society |