But when you are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he will say to you, 'Friend, move up to a better place.'  Then you will be honored in the presence of all the other guests.  Luke 14:10

If I see you do it… then I know it’s okay for me to do.

Why do you say that?

Because… you’re a Christian.  Right?

This was a conversation that I had with a friend as we sat waiting for our teacher to begin class.  One that, at the time, filled my soul with pride and honor; to be known as a follower of Christ by my peers.  To be regarded in such a way that my actions were okay to copy, because I had chosen to live my faith out loud.

Ever since that day, the Lord has continuously reminded me of this conversation.

I don’t know what started the conversation.  I honestly can’t tell you what it was about, but when these three statements enter my mind, I can literally hear it taking place.  However, it’s not pride and honor that fills my soul.

As I think back over the past 15 years, fear now takes over the places where pride and honor once filled.  Fear at the realization of how far away from Christ I really was.  I was a Christian, safe and secure in the hands of God.  But the person I revealed was far from Christ-like.

… Actions… Responses… Decisions… Conversations…

What have I done?  Who have I led astray?  Why have I chosen to reveal something other than the love and person of Jesus Christ?

Please read Philippians 2:1-18

Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God, entered this world as King, yet lived a life of a humble slave, willingly serving and sacrificing for His Master.  He chose to deny Himself, take up our cross and follow the will of the Father… knowing full well what it would cost Him.

He knew my needs and He knew I couldn’t meet them on my own.  So He chose to go the distance. He chose to go to the lowest place for me.

How differently would this world be if we, as followers of Christ, would live the life of humility our Savior did?  What if we could always deny ourselves… continuously take up His cross… and willingly follow… only revealing His pure and radiant light?

Father, thank You for seeing me and still offering me the very best.  When I kneel at Your feet, Your precious feet that reveal a constant reminder of what my decisions have cost You, I realize there is nothing better.  My soul has found rest in the absolute best.  My soul has found peace in knowing that it’s not just what is best for me, but what is best for all!

You, my God and King, are THE GOD and THE KING of all.  One day all above, on and below the earth, will willingly bow at Your feet.  You will finally be given the glory and honor You have always deserved.

Forgive me for denying You my honor and my glory.  Forgive me for choosing to reveal self.  Lord as I continue through this week, remind me whose I am.  Remind me what I’ve committed to.  Remind me of what I’ve been commanded to do.  Remind me that every time I refuse to deny myself, I’m choosing to deny You.  In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.