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September 25 Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation. Romans 12:16. Paul has just revealed the character of the Christian—one who presents himself as a living sacrifice to the Lord. And then he asks that same person to associate with the lowly. Of course this has nothing to do with the economic or educational status of those whom we are encountering, but it has everything to do with the desired mindset, or should I say spirit-set, of the Christian. We are to associate with those who are poor in spirit, who know that they depend completely upon God and His Son, Jesus. The Christian is not to adopt a mindset that fantasizes that he/she is spiritually superior or more Biblically appraised. Instead we are to find common ground with those that seek to define their very existence in terms of the mercies and grace of God. There is no room for us to think that all matters depend upon us. We are not the standard, but Jesus is! He did not seek to glorify Himself, but He found that the Father was glorified as He, the Son, listened and obeyed How could we seek to do otherwise? I have found it helpful to visualize, as much as possible, how the world looks at us. What do they perceive as we go about our life? Are we approachable? Are we realistic about life? Can we appear to understand and be willing to be helpful? Yes, the Lord would have it that way. We are to be in association with the hungry of this world. Heavenly Father, we seek the humility, meekness, and gentleness of Your Spirit. Let us be ever mindful that we are to be available to all that we meet. We are to make ourselves approachable without being compromised by the world. We can only do this through the power of Your Spirit. Amen. |
