Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus. Philippians 2:3-5
Encouragement, comfort from God’s love, abiding presence of His Holy Spirit, tenderness, and compassion are all given to the believer. In response to all of this, Paul says our attitude should be the same as Christ Jesus – humility! Nothing I do should be self seeking or to “puff myself up”. Actually, my new tendency should be to look out for others. When I do this, relationships become deeper and more meaningful as they are now rooted and grounded on the basis of love.
So how am I doing? In general, God has moved the needle in this attitude. I have a ways to go. I do find myself looking out for my own interests at time, without regard to others. But, the overall mindset of Christ Jesus is finding its way into my thinking and feeling more and more.
God, I do desire the day when I no longer do anything out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Thank you for prompting me moment by moment when I am selfish. I am grateful that You have given me a body that works well and the energy to do more than just enough for myself. Help me remember it is a gift to be used for Your glory.
