Paul was convinced of his own unworthiness. Since he believed he didn’t deserve anything, there was no trial that could shake his joyful confidence in Christ. He trusted in God’s sovereignty over every circumstance. “But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all” (Phil. 2:17).
It is easy to fall into the trap of believing I deserve this or that. It is partly due to living in a culture where the mindset is “if you dream it, it can be yours.” Some would even say “it should be yours.” A great emphasis is placed on personal rights. I can get impatient just waiting in line. My desire is to be served instantly as if somehow that is owed to me simply because I exist. When frustrated about something, whether big or small, I must ask myself: is this a true injustice?
Christ laid down His every right. And He had every right! He is always the perfect example to follow.
Although He existed in the form of God, [He] did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped (Phil. 2:6).
The Almighty God laid aside His position in order to secure mine. I am His. I am forgiven from the darkness of my personal sin. I need nor want for anything but Him. I’ve been given what I do not deserve.
If we want to avoid a load of trouble and frustration in this life, we simply need to let go of the self-focused illusion that we deserve anything other than punishment for our sin.
Amazingly, we are allowed to dwell in the palm of God’s faithful hand as He orchestrates a beautiful plan for each of His beloved. He knows what every heart needs to be tended or mended. Every affliction is designed to help us rely on the Lord and move away from depending on ourselves. He is ever preparing us for the work we are to accomplish for His Kingdom. Like Paul, let us rejoice!
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