Read Philippians 2:5-13 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
1. What does Paul say we should have?
2. How does he describe Christ’s mindset?
3. Who does Paul say is working in us?
Reflect
Yesterday’s Scripture showed how marriage reflects Christ’s love. Today’s reading, sometimes called the “Hymn of Christ,” describes what His love looks like: He left heaven to live on earth as fully man and fully God, and He gave up His life so that the sins of all who believe in Him could be forgiven. His sacrifice on the cross defines His love.
In the same way, wives and husbands are called to love each other sacrificially. Read yesterday’s passage (Ephesians 5:21-33) again to see how Paul instructs both. Wives are to submit to, or follow, their husbands as the church follows Christ. Wives sacrifice by putting themselves not below their husbands but below the mission God has for their marriage, which is obeying and glorifying Him.
Husbands are to love their wives as Christ loves the church, sacrificing their preferences and personal desires to prioritize their well-being and care for them. When this kind of love defines a marriage, it symbolizes God’s unity, sanctifies those involved, blesses others around them, and preaches the gospel of Christ’s sacrifice for everyone. But no matter your circumstances, Philippians 2:13 promises God is still working in you.
Respond
What have you learned about God through this week’s Bible reading? What is one thing He might be calling you to do for someone else to show them His love this week?