Issue 11 - Day 2

Philippians 2:2-4
2)  Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.
3)  Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
4)  Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

Once again the problem we face is rooted in our heart attitude, our motivation. Operating from vainglory, means doing things to show how clever we are. It is a common failing of anyone who can do something that others cannot to make others feel insignificant, rubbing their inability in their faces.

If there was one man who had every excuse to feel superior to everyone else it was Christ, yet we never see that happening in scripture. When he was twelve he spent a few days discussing things with the rabbis in the temple. This is the equivalent of a twelve year old today hanging out with a bunch of Oxford University professors. Anyone doing that one feels has a right to feel superior, yet the very next thing he does is apologise to his mum and dad and head home quietly.

Not attacking, not proudly, but in lowliness of mind  is how we are to think of others. How far from today’s standards of building your self-esteem at any cost. Our world would be a different place if we all acted as God teaches us. Certainly no riots would occur! How could you smash a shop window if you were thinking of the shop owner, and what would be best for him? Again, ask God to give you his heart, and to see others as he sees them. Focus on God’s priorities, not your own. Seek to help and encourage others, rather than elevating yourself. When God’s will is number one, we will see him working.