A Mind Like Christ's

“Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus” - Philippians 2:5

Over the last few years, I have heard brothers and sisters, in an attempt to encourage change in others, make statements on having the mind of Christ without providing much explanation on what it looks like. One of the most well-known ways is through the "WWJD" (What would Jesus do?) statement. How would Jesus think and act in that moment? That is how we should act, right? While those things are good, they only make sense for those who have a relationship with Jesus, read His Word, and seek to apply it to their lives.

In Philippians 2:5, the apostle Paul transitions from giving commands leading to unity and humility within the Church to the perfect example of humility and service, the Lord Jesus Christ (cf. Philippians 2:6-11).

Paul calls the Philippians to think of others before themselves. They were to be willing to serve and to humble themselves in order to aid anyone, even those below them socially. These selfless thoughts lead to actions that bless others and spread the gospel. This is the mindset that every believer should have as they walk out each and every day; we need to put others before ourselves.

We should have a mindset that is focused on aiding and serving the needs of others. This is the same mindset that Jesus Christ exemplified (Matthew 20:25-28, John 13:12-17) and which we seek. Sadly, the Church always falls short, struggling against the selfish nature that dwells within. We know what should be done, but we do not always desire it. Our minds become focused on our problems and struggles to the detriment of those around us, and this disturbs us. Nevertheless, we have an assured hope that our minds will be transformed as we are being conformed to the image of Jesus (Romans 8:29 ,12:1-2), and with that knowledge, we reach out to God.

All Christians find themselves at different stages in the sanctification process. Some find it easier to combat the lusts of the flesh and selfish thinking as they are changed by the Holy Spirit than others. We do not condemn our brothers and sisters. Rather, we encourage one another to strengthen our relationships with God by reading His Word and through gentle, loving correction. We pray for one another and fellowship together.

We are all commanded to seek this selfless mindset, the very one that Christ showed us, a mindset which puts others first and seeks unity within the body of believers. So, what are we doing to serve others today? What are we doing to learn this mindset of humility and service? Let us pray for God to change our desires and direct us to display a mind like Christ's, to think of others before ourselves. Let us serve God by serving others.