Be a Lamb, End a Lion!

Because Jesus laid His life down as an obedient Lamb, He earned the right to rule as the Lion.  (Philippians 2)

This same dichotomy can be seen in the Christian life.  Paul said that through many tribulations we enter the Kingdom of God.  2 Corinthians 4 speaks about how we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the power may be of God and not of us. The following description of being hard-pressed, but not crushed, perplexed but not in despair, persecuted, but not forsaken, etc. shows the reality that the struggle in the world can in no way take away the life and joy of what we have and who we are in the Lord.  We are "the Lion" that God has called to rule if we become "the lamb" who obediently submits to the Master.

2 Corinthians 4:10 reveals this key, "always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body."  Jesus said no one takes My life from Me, I lay it down of Myself.  Yet, in truth, His laying His life down brought about the greatest blessing that could ever happen to man, changing our very nature as believers into children of God.  Likewise, when we freely release our life, our desires and rights, we allow God's power to be released in and through us.  A simple attitude shift of "how can I bless someone today," instead of "what about me?" will open the door for the life of Jesus to be manifested. 

Paul, two chapters later, describes how he and his Christian team were regarded in this two-fold perception, "as deceivers, and yet true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying and behold we live; as chastened, and yet not killed; as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things."  The world rejected Jesus and according to John 15, will reject those who follow Him.  However, know that whatever the price, God honors your obedient laying down your life with His abundant inner strength, joy, and peace.  The glory does not compare to the sacrifice.  What you sow as a Lamb, you will surely reap by the Lion power of God.