Practising humility

by Bishop Pastor Ezekiel Creese

Faith Word Ministry

Philippians 2:4

1. (KJV)

Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

2. New Living Translation

Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.

History or context:

Paul, in prison, is writing to thank and encourage Christians in Philippi. They face their own trials and have their own problems. They, like many churches today, had some petty disagreements and selfishness. Paul points them to a better approach to interpersonal relationships and gives them three examples they can imitate – (CONSIDERATION, HUMILITY and CONTENTMENT).{{more}}

In Philippians 2:4, Paul doesn’t tell us that it is wrong to look out for our own interests, but that we should not only look out for our own interests, but also the interests of others.

Why?

1. Because this is the way of Christ. He, the best of all humans, did not put himself first, but considered the needs of others. This promotes HUMILITY.

2. Because it helps us to obey God’s commandment of “being of one mind” (according to Romans 14:1

1st Corinthians 1:10 etc), this promotes UNITY. It shows power of understanding and sympathy towards “the things of others”– not merely the interests, but also the ideas and feelings of others. It expresses that insight into the thoughts, hopes, dreams and aspirations of others, which only a self-forgetting love can give, as well as the care to consider their welfare and happiness.

3. Because, according to Philippians 2:3, we should esteem others more highly than ourselves. The point is not what others are. The point is what you count others to be. And the focus in not on how they do something or the traits they possess. The focus is: Will you count them as worthy of your help and encouragement? Not are they worthy of it? But will you count them as worthy? Will I serve my brother or sister? Will I take thought not just for my interests but for theirs? Will I encourage them and take the time to help them and build them up. Will I sometimes ignore my own interest and show interest in them?

This promotes CONSIDERATION.

ACTS 9 36-43

GAL 6-10

John 3 17-18

This is our message for this season that we are in.

God bless us all, Love.