For whose benefit?

By Jes Bates

‘Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests but also to the interests of others.’

Uncompromising words from Philippians 2:3-4. What does it mean for us in practical terms? I suppose it is that we are not leaders for our own benefit, our own status, our own reputation. We are not doctors for our own benefit, our own status, our own reputation. We are not building houses, palaces or kingdoms for our own benefit. It is only our insecurities that make us seek these things. We do what we do; we are what we are; we have what we have for others, for service, for love, for compassion, for healing, for justice…for others.

We need to learn true humility, practice self-denial, sacrifice, giving and mercy. We will not lack anything except pride. As we realise that our real security is only found hidden in Christ, we will find that to be valued by God alone all we really need.

As we look ahead to this week, how can we create space for stillness to know peace beyond understanding? What do we need to do to take captive our human fears and know every day that God is with us and in us? What choices about how we live our lives this week will give God pleasure?