“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
Paul’s charge to the church in Philippi is clear . . . and daunting.
If you read it quickly, you might add it to your mental checklist of Christian duties without truly counting the costs. It sounds good and right, but what Paul calls Christians to do is impossible in our own strength.
We are selfish and proud in our sin but are called to radical, humble love in Christ.
Notice that both of these verses are imperatives (or commands), and both begin with what we shouldn’t do: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit” and “Let each of you look not only to his own interests.” In other words, don’t act out of selfishness or pride, and don’t only look out for yourself. Ouch.
Then, each imperative ends with what we should do: “in humility count others more significant than yourself” and look “also to the interests of others.” Live in a way that your actions declare that others are more important than yourself. And look to find the good in others the same way you seek good for yourself.
In these imperatives, Paul directs Christians on how to live in unity. Christian unity is birthed out of radical love, and this love is most clearly on display in our humility toward one another.
I agree with CS Lewis: “True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it’s thinking of yourself less.”
The Christian life is a call to humility in every respect, and sadly, my closest relationships often expose how deeply I fall short. My husband, the person on this earth whom I have vowed to love the most, is often the one to whom I respond with the most pride. And I am perpetually frustrated when my children’s needs disrupt my desires and pursuits. Instead of counting my precious family members as more significant than myself, I often look for ways to seek my own interests and gain over theirs.
Praise God that there is hope for me in the gospel.
When I repent of this sin and turn to Christ, He is faithful to forgive me and cleanse me of all unrighteousness. Not only do I have hope that I’m saved from this sin, but I also have confidence that I will grow in humility and Christ-likeness as I’m being sanctified. By God’s grace, I can love the people God places in my life with radical, humble love.
And if you are in Christ, you can, too.
Ask for God’s help. He is eager to help you walk in obedience for your good and His glory.
Written by Marjorie Roberson, Guest Contributor
DIG DEEPER
Read “Loving God Means Loving Others” by Bryant Wright
