Looking Out for Number Two

make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. – Philippians 2:3-4

The theme of the book of Philippians is joy in the believer. Philippians chapter 2 focuses on the joy of selflessness. The upside down kingdom strikes again. The world tells us to make sure we take care of ourselves first, but the word of God here informs us that true joy comes from denying self, humbling self, in deference to others.

But putting others first is unnatural for us, who suffer from the inheritance of a sin nature. So how can we possibly do this? If not on our own then what, (or who) is our example? As usual, Jesus is the answer.

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name – Philippians 2:5-9

If Jesus’ example is too much too fast, Paul provides another example, in Timothy, to provide a model for what brings true joy from God…

I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. I have no one else like him, who takes a genuine interest in your welfare. – Philippians 2:19-20

What you do to change your perspective and focus on investing your life more in the souls of others and less on the exaltation of self will not only be obedient to God’s word, it will bring you increased true joy in your heart.
****************************************

He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. – Luke 1:52

For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." – Luke14:11

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. – James 4:10



*****************************************************************************