Considering Others as More Important than Self
- Shawna Jones
- May 16, 2023
- 2 min read
(5/16/23)
" (3) Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. (4) Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others."
In his epistle to the Philippians, Paul instructs the Christians on the proper way to treat one another. Along with instructing them to be one in spirit, mind, and love, Paul states that the Philippians should "do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit" (v.3). Instead, he encourages them to exercise humility in considering each other as more important than themselves (v.4). Despite Paul's good advice, this tends to be the exact opposite of what we are inclined to do. Instead of imitating Christ in serving others, we may focus on doing what would best benefit ourselves. However, we would not be showing the love of Christ if we looked to our own interests without regards to the well-being of others. It is only by fixing our eyes on Christ and viewing ourselves in light of who God is that we will be able to look past ourselves and act in the way of love.
Q: How have you struggled with selfishness or conceitedness in the past? Or, when have you looked to your own interests before others?
Q: What are ways in which you can seek to put others first?
God, I realize that I often act out of my own self-interest. Please forgive me for all the times that I do and help me with being humble. Open my eyes to opportunities where I can serve others and please help me to consider those around me as more important than myself. Thank You for bearing with me.
In Jesus' Name, I pray, amen.
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