Listen

Therefore, if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort in love, any sharing in the Spirit, any sympathy, complete my joy by thinking the same way, having the same love, being united, and agreeing with each other. Don’t do anything for selfish purposes, but with humility think of others as better than yourselves. Instead of each person watching out for their own good, watch out for what is better for others.

Philippians 2:1–4

Think

“What’s in it for me?” Even if you’ve never actually said those words, it’s easy to think that way. We often want to have the best spot, receive recognition, or have our opinion prevail. Social media can even make us think that everything revolves around our tastes, our photos, and our experiences.

In the book of Philippians, Paul presents a different way of living. He invites us not to do things out of pride or selfishness, but to consider others and care for their needs as well. That requires humility. Being humble doesn’t mean thinking you’re worthless or letting others hurt you. It means recognizing that you have value and that those around you do, too. Sometimes, one of the most powerful ways to demonstrate our faith is to stop asking, “What do I want?” and start asking, “What does the person next to me need?” Power may attract attention; humility can transform a relationship.

Lilybeth Bosch

Question to Ponder:

In what situations can you stop thinking only about yourself and consider someone else’s needs?

Pray

God, help me recognize when I’m thinking only of myself. Teach me today to look with love upon the needs of those around me. Amen.

Go

May you do what is right, be faithful and loyal, and humbly obey your God.

Micah 6:8b DHH