Have the Same Mindset as Christ

In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! — Philippians 3:5-8 

Jesus Christ, being in the very nature God.

Even so, He did not consider equality with God something to use to His own advantage.

Instead, He made himself nothing.

He took o the very nature of a servant.

Christ was made in human likeness.

He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death.

Even death on a cross.

Taking on the ultimate sacrifice for me personally.

Have the Same Mind as Christ

In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. – Philippians 2:5-7 

Jesus did not consider equality with God something to be used to His own advantage.

Even though He was God.

Instead, He took on the role of a servant.

He became man and died for my sins.

When we think of His sacrifice, we are humble

Relationships With One Another

In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. — Philippians 1:5-7

Relationships can be tricky.

We are not always the best communicators — myself included.

It takes hard work, forgiveness, and understanding to nurture relationships.

God gives us instructions for relationships in His Word. 

And He asks us to practice the fruit of the Spirit.

Love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, self-control, faithfulness, and gentleness.

Jesus is our example, taking the nature of a servant instead of lording it over us.

A tough example to follow.

But thankfully, God and the Holy Spirit help guide us.

Strength to Keep Going

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. — Joshua 1:9

Mission San Luis Rey Oceanside 2016

This weekend I attended a women's retreat up at Mission San Luis Rey, and it was wonderful.

God really blessed me through the speakers, reading my Bible, praying, connecting with friends, meeting new Christian sisters, celebrating Joy's birthday, singing God's praises, sitting among the flowers, laughing over wine and cheese, doing some crazy skits, trying cupping plus a variety of yoga balls, and eating wonderful food.

I probably gained a couple of pounds, so I'll head out for a hike this afternoon after I do our taxes.

I felt great the whole time until Friday night after dinner, when I headed over to hear the first speaker. I stopped to take a nausea pill and threw up the pill and my coleslaw all over the walkway.

I actually felt much better after that so headed back to the kitchen, borrowed a mop, and cleaned up the mess before heading into the meeting room. I missed the music, but arrived just in time to hear Dawn share the story of God's faithfulness to her during the loss of her first baby.

One of the things she shared was that she bought a pair of awesome really high heels to wear to the baby's funeral service just to help her feel good about herself on the outside as she was struggling on the inside.

She encourage us not to fake it with our relationships with others but to come before God, humbly lay ourselves bare, and admit our need for healing and salvation so God can use our weakness to point to the cross.

God meets us where we are and helps us move beyond ourselves.