I’m reading through Philippians with a friend, and I am finding myself being challenged on how I live life…not a bad thing to be challenged…evidence that I have not arrived! Anyway, the first time was in reading chapter 2:3-5:
“Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus…”
So the question I asked myself is, “Do I do this?” Do I count others more significant than myself? Do I look on the interests of others? And if I do, do I do these things in humility? If I considered my family alone I know that this area is pretty weak for me (let alone if I included close friends, acquaintances, and strangers). I found that I miss the mark quite often, but instead of getting discouraged of my imperfections I found myself in love with the first part of verse 5…”Have this mind among yourselves which is yours in Christ Jesus.” In Christ I have the mindset to humbly serve and think of others above myself. It is not something that I can obtain on my own but rather something that I have because I have Christ. Coupling this beautiful truth with chapter 1:6 I find myself rejoicing in my sanctifying God. “He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”
The second challenge I received was in chapter 1:27-30. I’m not going to type the whole thing, but Paul basically tells these Christians to make sure to are living worthy of the gospel of Christ. He proceeds to outline what that worthy life should include: standing firm in one spirit (v. 27), having one mind with other believers (v. 27), striving for the faith of the gospel (v. 27), not frightened by enemies (v.28), and believing in him and suffering for his sake (v. 29). Again I must confess that I miss the mark often, but I’m amazed at such purpose we Christians have in life. If I am ever “bored” I have forgotten my role and have stopped living a life worthy of the gospel of Christ.
Praise the Lord for his word that changes behavior and stirs our affections toward him!
