How can we apply the concept of being "lifted up" in our lives today? The Meaning of “Lifted Up” in John 12:32 “And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw everyone to Myself.” • Literally points to Jesus’ crucifixion—His body raised on the cross. • Prophetically includes His resurrection and ascension—God publicly vindicating His Son. • Spiritually serves as the magnet that draws sinners to salvation. What Jesus’ Lifting Up Secured for Us • Full atonement: John 3:14–15; 2 Corinthians 5:21. • Open access to the Father: Hebrews 10:19–22. • Certain victory over the enemy: Colossians 2:15. • A model of humble obedience that God honors: Philippians 2:8–11. Responding to the Cross: Personal Applications 1. Look and live – Like Israel gazing at the bronze serpent (John 3:14), fix your eyes on Christ for forgiveness, not on self-effort. 2. Walk in daily humility – “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.” (James 4:10) – Relinquish pride, confess sin quickly, serve without applause. 3. Trust God’s timing to raise you – “Humble yourselves… so that He may exalt you in due time.” (1 Peter 5:6) – Resist shortcuts; wait for His promotion in career, ministry, relationships. 4. Live as a drawing force – Christ now draws through His people (2 Corinthians 5:20). – Share the gospel simply; your transformed life points upward to Him. 5. Rise above weariness – Isaiah 40:31: those who hope in the LORD “will soar on wings like eagles.” – Prayer, Scripture, and worship renew perspective and stamina. Practical “Lift-Up” Habits for the Week • Morning: Read a Gospel passage until the cross grips your heart. • Midday: Choose one hidden act of service—no recognition sought. • Evening: Thank God for one area where He has already lifted you. • Conflict: Pause, pray James 4:10 aloud, then respond. • Discouragement: Declare Psalm 3:3—“You, O LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, and the One who lifts my head.” Common Hindrances & Scriptural Counters • Self-reliance → counter with Proverbs 3:5–6. • Envy of others’ promotion → counter with Psalm 75:6–7. • Shame over past sins → counter with Romans 8:1. • Fear of public witness → counter with 2 Timothy 1:7–8. Living Lifted Up Together • Encourage fellow believers who feel “down” by recounting how God has already raised them. • Celebrate testimonies of answered prayer; every story magnifies the lifted-up Christ. • Keep local church gatherings cross-centered—preaching, singing, ordinances all pointing upward. Jesus was lifted up for us; now we live lifted up in Him, drawing others to the same saving, elevating grace. |
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