Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus.

We know some people well enough that we can predict their order at a restaurant, their pick for a movie, or even guess what story they will tell in a conversation. We probably don’t know many people to this depth, but the closer we are with people and the more time we spend with them, the more we can come to understand their attitude and outlook on life.

Paul said to have the attitude of Christ, but we can quickly pass over an important step in the process: We must first know the attitude of Jesus. This is more than knowing stories about Jesus or answering theological questions correctly; it’s a deeper movement toward knowing His heart. We must look beyond the things He did to understand the relationship that He had with God that equipped Him to live as He did. We cannot live like Christ with humility, servant-heartedness, and wisdom without sharing His attitude and exalting God above all.

Do you know Christ in this deeper way? Have you spent time with Him beyond moments in church to get to know His heart and motivation? This is the personal relationship with Christ that you have been invited into. God does not hold us at arm’s length but invites us to know Him deeply. Jesus invites us to walk with Him and be transformed to have the same heart and attitude.

• What are some things you know about Jesus? What have you learned about His attitude and heart?
• What about Jesus feels distant or like a mystery to you? How can you submit those questions to God?
• Pray and thank God for the access He has given you to know Him. Ask Him to lead you closer to knowing Him today.