I love what we learn about the heart of Jesus in this scripture. Here we see that although He had the right and the authority (being in the form of God) to step out of His humanness—He chose not to. He could have shunned the cross, called down fire from heaven on the mockers, or damned His opposition, but He chose humility and emptied Himself even unto death on a cross. 

How often, as mom or dad, have you defended your rights of the house rather than practicing humility? How many times do you find yourself trying to make it happen your way rather than surrendering to the Father? Beloved, I have been in that place more times than I care to admit. The Bible says that Jesus chose to live like this so that we could find in Him a High Priest who understands us—our pain, our trials, our challenges, and our suffering. 

Jesus came to show us a whole new way of living life. He came to set us free from livinglife in the same miserable ways we've always lived it, to a new way of loving as He loved and living as He lived. This is what we call the abundant life—laying down our rights and looking to our Father in heaven for all of the direction, strength, grace, and love that we need. 

Have you found that the days of your greatest struggle often come when you are trying to make life happen on your own? The scripture says, "Have this mind among yourselves." Lean into the same source that Jesus did. 

Father, I choose to lay down my abilities to make life happen. I ask You to love me, lead me, and give me the grace for one more day. Open my heart and increase my capacity to love those You bring my way today. Thank You, Father. In Jesus' name, Amen!