Joy In Jesus (Humility)

 "Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others" Philippians 2:4 ESV.

This does not say we cannot look at our own interests at all.  Rather it says, "not only."  This means we can.  However, we must think of others' interests too.  Neither way is exclusive of the other.

A good way to put this command into persepctive and priority could be as follows.  We can put,

J - Jesus first.

O - Others next

Y - Yourself last.

This is how we can have joy in Jesus.

Our own selfish desires can be laid aside as we seek God's way.  As we serve the Lord to honor Him in doing justly, in loving mercy, and in walking humbly with Him (see Micah 6:8 NKJV).  Yes, and in imitating Christ who did His Father's will, who came to earth to care for the huge interests and needs of mankind.  He came to seek and to save the lost (Luke 19:10).  He came to die and take their sins' punishment.

We can dispense with our pride, disobedience and selfishness.  We can ask the Lord to teach us His ways, His attitude of humility, obedience and to put them ahead of our own interests.

Let's find our joy in Jesus in this way.  Amen?

Lord Jesus, thank You for showing us Your way, for being that ultimate good example for us to follow and learn Your attitude of humility to imitate.  In Your name we give our thanks.  Amen.

                                                ~ ERC  November 2025 ~

Based on Philippians 2:4 ESV.

Sing, Yet Not I but Through Christ in Me, along with City Alight.