The one who loves his life [eventually] loses it [through death], but the one who hates his life in this world [and is concerned with pleasing God] will keep it for life eternal. 26 If anyone serves Me, he must [continue to faithfully] follow Me [without hesitation, holding steadfastly to Me, conforming to My example in living and, if need be, suffering or perhaps dying because of faith in Me]; and wherever I am [in heaven's glory], there will My servant be also. If anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.—John 12:25-26
What a rich portion of Scripture! Verse 25 and 26 in particular for me were so very convicting! I am to be so devoted to living for Christ that I am to hate my own life by comparison. I must be willing not only to physically die for Christ, if in so doing that would bring Him glory; but I must also be willing to die to my own despotic self-rule. I must, in effect, disown self and all the self-centeredness that comes with it and “allow” God free control of my heart and my life. That means laying aside my selfish ambitions, my fears, my desire for security, my desire for comfort, my desire for pleasure or anything else that does not conform to the will of my Father in Heaven. Even as I write this I am feeling discouraged by the sheer impossibility of me actually being able to do any of it. To that I say, Amen! That is the right feeling.
I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me—Galatians 2:20
My sufficiency is not from me...it is from God...it is only by the power of His Spirit that I can do anything good. Philippians Chapter 2 gives us good advice on becoming like Christ. Truly, He is our perfect example of selfless humility. I really like the Amplified version:
“So then, my dear ones, just as you have always obeyed [my instructions with enthusiasm], not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation [that is, cultivate it, bring it to full effect, actively pursue spiritual maturity] with awe-inspired fear and trembling [using serious caution and critical self-evaluation to avoid anything that might offend God or discredit the name of Christ]. 13 For it is [not your strength, but it is] God who is effectively at work in you, both to will and to work [that is, strengthening, energizing, and creating in you the longing and the ability to fulfill your purpose] for His good pleasure.—Philippians 2:12-13
Including one of my favorite worship songs that came to mind as I wrote this:
Shepherd of My Soul
Shepherd of my soul I give You full control
Wherever You may lead I will follow
I have made the choice to listen for Your voice
Wherever You may lead I will go
Shepherd of my soul I give You full control
Wherever You may lead I will follow
I have made the choice to listen for Your voice
Wherever You may lead I will go
Be it in a quiet pasture or by a gentle breeze
The shepherd of my soul is by my side
Should I face a mighty mountain or a valley dark and deep
The shepherd of my soul will be my guide
Song by Integrity's Hosanna! Music and Marty Nystrom
