Got it Backwards!

But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. (Philippians 2:7-8 KJV)

As Christians we are admonished to follow His example, often being read this particular verse. But if we take this verse as an example, we’d have it backwards. Instead of coming from heaven and taking the likeness of men, we start out as man and take on the likeness of heaven.

Oh, yes, we need to take the form of a servant, humble ourselves and become obedient to Him, even unto death. But we’ve been given the opportunity through His obedience to move up – not necessarily in this world, but definitely into the next.

It’s important to know that Christ thought it not robbery to be equal with God – He was, is and always will be God. Thus we are His creation, For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. (Philippians 2:13 KJV)

John knew this, too: Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created. (Revelation 4:11 KJV)

Can we know God’s will?

For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. (John 6:38 KJV)

Now there’s a purpose for you. Christ knew why He was here. Isn’t that enough for us? Once we accept that, can we accept what follows: And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day. (John 6:40 KJV)

There are many such promises within His will: For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother. (Mark 3:35 KJV)

And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. (Romans 8:27 KJV)

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12:2 KJV)

Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father: (Galatians 1:4 KJV)

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (1 Thessalonians 5:18 KJV)

For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. (Hebrews 10:36 KJV)