Philippians 2:3 

New International Version (NIV)

 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,

For meditation

Selfishness is one of the greatest enemies of unity in all relationships. It destroys marriages and rules the affairs of the couple with greed. When this ugly animal rears its head in the church, it destroys fellowship and stifles service. However, as today’s passage commands, Christians can live unselfishly and in unity and harmony. This could mean sacrificing personal time to help a fellow church member in need or putting the needs of the church community above our desires. 

Agreeably, Christians can’t agree on everything, and perfection is not attainable until glory. However, we can have the same disposition of minds because of our shared union in Christ, His love, the indwelling Holy Spirit, and His affections we all share (Phil. 2:1-2). If we cannot love as ideally as Christ loves us, we can at least aim at it in all our dealings with each other (Rom. 5:8).

Having received comfort from the love of Christ, it is only proper for us to share that comfort in His love. We can work together in harmony for the glory of Christ (1 Cor. 10:31). What makes it difficult for us to imitate Christ in this way is our selfish motives and goals. But, if we focus on Christ and share His gifts for the common good of all, we can close the gap here, remembering that it is not about everyone being the same, but about everyone’s unique gifts and perspectives coming together in unity of hearts and minds (Phil. 2:3-4). 

As children of God, who should be the source and driver of our affection and emotions but the Holy Spirit? If that holds for every Christian, why can’t our motives and goals unite in Christ? Our problem is how insensitive and brutal we are on each other. Let us remember that the Holy Spirit is there to guide and support us in our unity. 

Was it not compassion that moved Christ to subject Himself to the cruelty of the cross for our healing (1 Peter 2:24)? Was it not His tenderness that allowed breaking His body and shedding of His blood for us (Isa. 53:2; 1 Cor. 11:23-25)? If then we have experienced His compassion and tenderness in salvation, why are we so insensitive and hard on each other?

May we, for the sake of God’s glory as our goal in life, be unselfish and loving as Christ lived, treating each other with compassion in everything (1 Cor. 10:31). May our Christian fellowship and other relationships encourage us to strive for a union of hearts, of feelings, of plans, and purpose.

The Lord heightens your joy as you seek His glory in unselfish living and caring for each other. Amen.

Pray with Me

Lord Jesus, help us be like you, selflessly living for the Father’s glory and the interest of all others, especially our fellow Christians.

Amen.