Caring for Others


Do nothing out of rivalry or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. Everyone should look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.
Philippians 2:3‭-‬4 HCSB

I think to understand these few verses you must understand the whole letter to the Philippian church and Paul'' heart. Paul was in Rome in prison. He shares how he longs to go to be with the Lord, but also longs to stay because of those like the people he writes to.

The opening verses of this chapter Paul says:

If then there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by thinking the same way, having the same love, sharing the same feelings, focusing on one goal.
Philippians 2:1‭-‬2 HCSB

This letter is a letter of love. Paul is lovingly encouraging the readers to act out of love for their fellow man. How do I challenge in love? Is it for the betterment of the hearer? How do air conduct myself in business? Is it for the betterment of those I do business with.

The whole message of the gospel and the epistles is love. Love is not mushy and withdrawn. At times love must be tough. At present I have my frail mother staying with me. I am having to make sacrifices with her around that I don't usually make when I am by myself. Yet my mum is a human being and quite able to be antsy (difficult))ust as I am. We give one another room to confront each other when required.

Looking out for the interests of others, for me means endeavouring to be active in the lives of those I care for. This often means doing and saying the hard stuff, challenging the difficulties with generosity and presence. It takes energy to be present and involved rather than disconnected. Stay present! Stay involved!

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