And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. (Philippians 2:8 ESV)
Fear Not… Then Obey
Benedict Arnold was a skillful general. And if you read his letters and journals, you might conclude that he was also a humble man. He wrote glowingly of people like George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and Ethan Allen.
But he switched sides in the middle of the Revolutionary War because of pride. His pride was not displayed in his words, on his face, or through his correspondence. His pride was apparent because he was unwilling to obey someone else.
He disagreed with his superior officers. And eventually, he could not humble himself enough to obey. And today his name is synonymous with traitor.
Paul notes that Jesus’ humility was displayed in His willingness to obey His superior. Even when He was commanded to die. That is a MUCH harder command to obey than, “attack on the left flank first!” But Jesus was humble. He obeyed.
God’s commands do not always make sense to us. Dishonesty seems prudent at times. Opening a business on the Day of Rest makes financial sense. Loving enemies is… ridiculous.
But before God, (and we are ALWAYS before God…) humble obedience is the path to satisfaction, honor, and joy. Whatever valleys you walk through, whatever troubles assail you, whatever fears lurk…
Fear not, then obey.