Do Nothing Through Rivalry

"Do nothing through rivalry or vain conceit. On the contrary, let each of you gently consider the others as more important than yourselves. Do not seek your own interest, but rather that of others. Let what was seen in Christ Jesus be seen in you." - Phillipians 2:3-5

Paul goes on to say that although Jesus was God in the flesh, He never boasted or made anyone exalt Him. Instead, Jesus made Himself lowly and led a life of service to others. This is what Paul means when he says that what was seen in Jesus needs to be seen in us. Unfortunately, we like to be treated really well. We like when people receive us nicely, think of us, do things for us… which is cool, but our goal is to be Christ-like, not self-centered. If we find this hard to do, or we're not sure where to start, Paul gives us the perfect start - do nothing out of rivalry or vain conceit. How many things do we do to show off? To make ourselves appear better than we are? How many times do we try to make someone jealous or to "one-up" them? Again, this is all vanity! These are things that only matter superficially, but what do they do for us as a person? They make us shallow.

We need to be more humble… and if you think you're already humble, you need to go further. We need to learn to look at everyone, even those we can't stand, as children of God because that's who they really are! The surest way to get to Heaven is to put oneself last and to gently cater to the needs of those around us. Let's be people of substance, the type of people that can touch strangers' hearts with our warmth, and this way spread the love of Christ to all.

Today's Prayer:
Jesus, give my eyes the light to see You in all those who surround me. When I'm having trouble with someone, please give me strength to see You in them. Remind me to never act out of rivalry or conceit, but with Your will at heart. In Your Name we pray, amen.