In this passage, three characteristics are outlined that all flow from having a humble spirit. We are to live in harmony with other Christians, being of one mind with scripture anchoring our worldview. This means we are patient and have a charitable spirit with one another.  Harmony doesn't simply mean peace, where cheap grace is given with no repentance or obedience required, but instead means to stand for the truth of scripture in love.

Lastly, we are not to be wise in our own eyes. Our attitude should not be one of promoting or exalting ourselves or living a life based simply on how we feel, which is commonplace in the world. For the Christian, our wisdom comes from the Lord and his Word, and we ought to be fair in assessing our gifts, talents, and abilities as we seek to serve the Lord.

 

Scripture: Proverbs 3:1-8, 13-18, Romans 12:9-16

Our attitude and actions as believers should and will look different than the world or those who merely profess to believe in Christ. We rejoice always and in all circumstances, because we know the sure and steady hope that awaits us in Christ. We are constantly praying, not simply to get us out of a situation or for something we want, but to give thanks, praise, and intercession, all according to His will. Our attitude ought to be one of sharing, generosity, and hospitality. To unbelievers, all of these characteristics are arbitrary. To those who merely profess to know Christ, these demands are too much, but for true believers, these are our expectations because he transforms us and is accomplished not as we try harder on our own but as we yield to Jesus Christ, who is our model.  

 

Scripture: Psalm 13, Romans 12:9-13

The birth of Jesus Christ is the most significant of all time because of who he is and what he would do for his people.  The good news the angel of the Lord brought was the greatest news ever given because it brings about peace forever, and the joy this brings stands above our temporal circumstances.  It never fades, wavers, or changes.  

 

Scripture: Psalm 4, Luke 2:8-14

There are distinct characteristics of Christians that are the natural outworking of the Christian life.  While we still battle indwelling sin, live in a fallen world, and are constantly tempted by Satan, Christ gives us the foundations for living that give us the ability to live in a way that honors him.  No one or nothing is more central to a Christian than Jesus Christ and obeying, pleasing, and serving him as a living sacrifice.  We are not to be conformed to this world or the things in it and should not count on these things to bring us our purpose, joy, or meaning.  Be transformed by the renewing of your mind and view everything through the lens and objective truth of the Bible. 

 

Scripture: Isaiah 55:8-13, Romans 12:1-8