Suck It Up Cupcake!

Philippians 2:14 says. “Do everything without grumbling or arguing.”

Affectionately dubbed the, “Suck It up cupcake” verse by my childhood youth leader, this verse became the mantra for our immature hearts to do all things that seemed hard with patience and endurance.

Interestingly, Philippians 2 begins with an admonishment to imitate the humility of Jesus.

Christ wants his followers to be like-minded(to have the mind of Christ) and be of one Spirit. We are called to put off selfish ambitions and not think too highly of ourselves.

We are to outdo one another in the way we serve and value  those around us even putting others’ interests above our own.  This may seem easy in theory, that is, until you come across someone who may not “deserve” it.

Jesus, came and took on the very nature of a servant in human likeness even though he was God incarnate. He lived in complete obedience to the Father. He lovingly called those “unworthy” to himself, loved sinners, and served the disadvantaged. Ultimately, Jesus gave His life, dying a very public and painful death to atone for our sins. WE are not worthy of his love and sacrifice but he willingly gave himself anyway.

This is the standard by which we are to measure our service. This is the perspective we are to serve from; with happy hearts in owe of our Savior. In such service we are changed. Not only will we more fully identify with Christ but in learning to love our neighbor we will also undergo refinement, a process that leaves us blameless and pure so that we will be proper witnesses to a wicked generation.

Is it easy? No. In fact, it is impossible without the Holy Spirit. As Christ’s children we are called to serve, and through His power and presence it will be accomplished. So, Suck it up cupcake! You’re not alone, God sees your sacrifice! Measure everything in light of eternity and hold on loosely to the things of this world. Do what is right, even when it is hard for the glory and renown of your Savior.