John 13:3-5

New International Version

Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so, he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.

Your Encouragement

Knowing who you are is essential for victorious Christian living. It keeps the child of God humble and from the stresses of life.

There is too much stress in trying to belong and seeking applause. The world is in a fast lane mode, and life is whipping by at a dizzying speed. Struggling for position and the display of wealth has caused many people to claim to be what they are not and tell lies to deceive others because they are insecure.

However, if you know who you are in Christ, you do not seek human recognition or praise. Nor do you seek to assert your authority because you know your value. You are content with your station and can serve at any level. You can bend down and wash the feet of those around you, just as Jesus did as an example for us to follow. He did this because He knew who He was, His divine power, and his destination (John 13:3-5).

That is the bedrock of meekness—strength under control. Bringing oneself under the authority of God the Father is humility, and it is the lesson Jesus taught by His incarnation and selfless living (Phil. 2:6-8). His life has become a demonstration of dying to self and living by the power of the Holy Spirit. That is Christlike living, which earns the believer the right to the title “Christian.”

So, know who you are in Christ, and as His follower, determine to live like Him in humility and with others. Nothing earns His approval better than living as He did.

Shalom, and good morning.