August 11, 2015: SOAP #2077:

Scripture: John (NIV) 13:1 …Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. … 3 Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God;

Observation: Jesus knew that the culmination of His time was just before Him. He knew He had come from God and was soon to return to His place in the heavens—so what did He do? Did he force His authority on them? Did He take charge and give orders? Did He impress them by making sure they understood just who He was?

Scripture: John (NIV) 13:4 so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. 5 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.

Observation: He knew who He was, yet He took the position and responsibility of a servant.

Application: When I know who I am, I become a better servant. The One who lives within me came to serve. Knowing that the Creator God lives by His Spirit within me should not make me arrogant, or demanding, or pushy because of the authority I have in His name—it should make me a better servant.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I want to please you by being like Your Son, Jesus. Holy Spirit, help me to serve others like Jesus did. Amen