Only Human
Since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving (2 Corinthians 8:7).
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 8:7-15
Song: “Take Time to Be Holy”
An oft repeated excuse for failure is the refrain “I’m only human.” Used excessively, it becomes a rather lame defense for falling short in our quest for holiness. But whatever happened to WWJD? While not as popular as it once was, I love this question (“What would Jesus do?”) and the lofty standard it extols.
“I’m only human” cannot be our Christian witness. Jesus is our example; He shows us the way. In and through Jesus, we are more than merely human. We are indwelt with deity.
As the Corinthians were challenged, let us excel in all things. Let us be done with excuses. Excel in faith. Excel in speech. Seek to excel in knowledge of His Word. Seek to excel in love. Does this sound as if we’re called to be merely human?
Jesus is our unquestioned example. He was rich yet became poor. He was divinity yet became humanity. God became man to lead man. He left Heaven and came to a small, backward town in an obscure corner of the planet. Privileges exchanged for a cross. Now He invites us to follow His example and become more like Him. Does this sound like a task for those who are only human?
O God, I’m blessed to be indwelt by the Holy Spirit through baptism. Living in Your kingdom, I want to be done with excuses. Holiness is my focus, my goal. May Your Spirit empower me toward increased faithfulness in all things. Through Christ, amen.