Jesus pursued joy by humbling Himself to exalt the Father, and so should we.

 

Read Philippians 2:1-11.

 

“For the joy set before him, he endured the cross” (Hebrews 12:2). What joy compelled the Son of God to suffer crucifixion? What joy compelled the divine King of the universe to leave His heavenly throne, enter our brokenness as a poor man with nowhere to lay His head, and, though sinless, suffer mockery, scorn, beating, humiliation, and death?

 

It was the joy of our redemption, the joy of ushering all believers into the glorious throne room of God now and for eternity (see Ephesians 2:6-7). And ultimately, it was the joy of bringing glory to Almighty God, who extends grace and mercy to sinful people.

 

Do you long to experience unshakable joy? We do not become joyful people by making much of ourselves, but by making much of God, the only one deserving of praise. Today, respond to Paul’s call to take on the attitude of Jesus (Philippians 2:5-8). Set your eyes on the Savior.

 

If Christ, who from eternity deserves exaltation, made Himself low, how much more should we? When we comprehend the enormity of the cost of our redemption, it will humble us. And far from making us depressed or discouraged, this humility will produce deep, soulful rejoicing, for God is worthy, and He saves and exalts the humble. 

 

Prayer: Lord, I long to be a person of unshakable joy. I know this comes by focusing on You. Help me follow You by the strength of Your Spirit. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

 

“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” (Philippians 2:5-6).

 

*Today’s devotional comes from our newly redesigned MY Journal. Sign up for your FREE 6-month subscription today: https://www.ltw.org/read/my-journal.

About The Author

Dr. Michael Youssef, Ph.D.

Even before he was born, it is clear that God had a vision for Michael Youssef. His mother was in poor health when she became pregnant with Michael, and because his life was in danger at the time of birth, the doctor recommended terminating the pregnancy. An abortion was scheduled. But God intervened and sent the family pastor to reassure them that God was involved in this pregnancy. He told them not to be afraid and that the child would be "born to serve the Lord." Michael's parents accepted the pastor's message as a message from God and obeyed. His mother gave birth, and lived to see him give his life to the Lord at the age of sixteen.


Believing that God had called him out of Egypt, Michael sought an exit visa in a time in which no university student was allowed to have a passport or leave the country. God intervened again, and miraculously he managed to acquire a visa. He immigrated to Australia, where he studied at Moore Theological College in Sydney, was ordained as a pastor, and met Elizabeth who became his wife.


The Youssefs came to America in 1977, and in 1978 Michael received a master's degree in theology at Fuller Theological Seminary in California. Then he earned a doctorate in social anthropology at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Michael served nearly ten years in the Haggai Institute, traveling around the world more than 32 times, teaching courses in evangelism and leadership. He rose to the position of Managing Director at the age of 31 years. The family settled in Atlanta, and in 1984, Michael became a citizen of the United States, making his dream of many years come true.


He founded The Church of The Apostles in 1987 with fewer than 40 adults with the mission of "Equipping the Saints and Searching for the Lost". The church has since grown to be a congregation of over 3,000 people today. This church has driven the international ministry of Leading the Way. While it is heard by millions at home and abroad, behind every message preached through radio waves, is the heart of a pastor, willing to nurture and care for these people. Clearly God has uniquely equipped Dr. Youssef to speak to a global audience. The path he has taken has given him an understanding and firm grasp of the Scriptures that transcend cultures. He preaches, teaches and calls with a sincere, based on the authority of the inerrant, inspired Word of God. With his personal knowledge of the Holy Land, its history and culture, Dr. Michael Youssef transmits life to listeners all over the world.



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