A passion for Christ

In considering the question of increasing our passion for Christ, we must look at Christ's teaching on humility. "The one who rises will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be lifted up" (Matthew 23:12). Jesus just called the Pharisees for their proud behavior (23: 5-7). They know the scriptures and can interpret the Word to the masses, but their own lives are not up to par.

If we are honest before God, even the most diligent among us should admit their sins. For example, the man likes recognition. When Jesus rebuked the Pharisees, he said : "You need attention, you want public meetings and love to be recognized in the streets, proud and self-exhilarating, totally helpless. humility."

Basically, humility is a total dependence of the Lord. The word "dependence" means "trust for all things, in all things". True trust does not stop with saying : "I am weak," but also declares : "He is strong." And this dependent trust requires humility.

Jesus is our example of humility. The Lord who created all things and for whom all was created depended entirely on his Father. He has said many times : "I do nothing of myself ... because I always do what pleases him" (John 8: 28-29).

If you really want a passion for Jesus, ask the Holy Spirit to go to the bottom of your heart and convince you of any desire for self-exaltation. Jesus said : "Whoever will rise will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be lifted up" (Matthew 23:12).

David Wilkerson