FROM ORDINARY TO GREAT—FOLLOWING JESUS’ EXAMPLE

Key Scripture:

“He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place…”

(Philippians 2:8–9, NIV)

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Jesus shows us that greatness is not instant—it is a process. Before His ministry, He lived as the carpenter’s son in Nazareth, an ordinary life. Yet through God’s plan, He transitioned into greatness as Saviour and Lord. His journey reveals four stages we must also embrace:

1. Separation

Jesus left His heavenly glory and came in human form (Philippians 2:6–7). He was set apart from birth for God’s purpose (Luke 1:35). Greatness begins when we separate ourselves from sin and the world’s patterns.

2. Preparation

For 30 hidden years, Jesus grew in wisdom, stature, and favour (Luke 2:52). He fasted, prayed, and learned obedience (Hebrews 5:8). Our quiet seasons are not wasted—they prepare us for God’s assignments.

3. Opposition

From Herod’s attempt on His life (Matthew 2:16) to rejection in Nazareth (Mark 6:3) and betrayal at the cross, Jesus endured resistance. Opposition is part of the pathway to destiny.

4. Elevation

After the cross came the crown. God highly exalted Him and gave Him the name above every name (Philippians 2:9–11). True greatness comes when we endure the process faithfully.

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Reflection

Like Jesus, we may begin in ordinariness. But when we surrender to God’s process—separation, preparation, opposition—He will lift us into His greatness.

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Prayer:

Lord, help me to embrace Your process in my life. Teach me to separate from sin, endure preparation, stand firm in opposition, and trust You for elevation. May my ordinary be transformed into greatness for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.