Topic: The Interests of Others

  August 24, 2017

Read: Philippians 2:1–11 | Bible in a Year: Psalms 116–118; 1 Corinthians 7:1–19
In humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests. Philippians 2:3–4

OUR Daily Bread Devotional

My friend Jaime works for a huge international corporation. In his early days with the company, a man came by his desk, struck up a conversation, and asked Jaime what he did there. After telling the man about his work, Jaime asked the man his name. “My name is Rich,” he replied.

“Nice to meet you,” Jaime answered. “And what do you do around here?”

In humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests. Philippians 2:3–4
“Oh, I am the owner.”

Jaime suddenly realized that this casual, humble conversation was his introduction to one of the richest men in the world.

In this day of self-glorification and the celebration of “me,” this little story can serve as a reminder of Paul’s important words in the book of Philippians: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit” (2:3). People who turn their attention to others and not on themselves have the characteristics Paul mentions.
OUR Daily Bread Devotional

When we “value others above [ourselves],” we demonstrate Christlike humility (v. 3). We mirror Jesus, who came not “to be served, but to serve” (Mark 10:45). When we take “the very nature of a servant” (Phil. 2:7), we have the mindset of Jesus (v. 5).

As we interact with others today, let’s not look on our own interests alone but also “to the interests of the others” (v. 4).

Jesus, You gave us the model of humility when You left heaven’s splendors to become a humble servant on earth. Help us practice Christlike humility in everything we do.

Serve God by serving others.

By Dave Branon | See Other Authors

INSIGHT:
Many scholars believe the apostle Paul embedded an early hymn in his letter to the Philippians. Chapter 2:6–11 is comprised of six couplets that seem to lend themselves to an ancient form of singing. These carefully crafted lines show what it means to believe in and follow Christ. In stark contrast to other kings of the world, Jesus gave up the glory and honor of heaven to be crowned with the thorns and mockery of His crucifixion. Instead of using others for His own pleasure, He sacrificed Himself to lovingly come to our rescue.

Christ’s selfless sacrifice impacted Paul. He mirrored what Christ suffered for us when he showed his willingness to suffer for others.

In what ways can we show self-sacrificing love to others? Mart DeHaan

OUR Daily Bread Devotional

Our Daily Bread is a devotional calendar-style booklet published by Our Daily Bread Ministries (formerly RBC Ministries) in over 55 languages.[1] The booklet is one of the most widely read Christian devotionals in circulation today. It was first published in April 1956 and includes writing about the Bible and insights into Christian living. The booklet's title originates from a line of the Lord's Prayer. The contents include a Bible passage and a relevant article for each day of the year. It is written by a different author each day, and also features additional Bible passages for people following Our Daily Bread's "Bible In One Year" reading program.

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