“Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” — Philippians 2:4
This verse points us to two ways of living: the self-centered life that naturally looks first to our own interests, and the new life in Christ that teaches us to look also to the interests of others.
Before Christ, our lives were centered on ourselves. Even when we thought we were doing something good, our own desires and interests could easily become the center. But by the grace of God through Christ Jesus, everything changes.
Philippians 2:6–8 shows us Christ, who was in the form of God, yet humbled Himself by taking the form of a servant. He became obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. He did not live for His own comfort or exaltation, but willingly gave Himself for us. He then rose from the dead and was highly exalted by the Father.
Therefore, as followers of Christ, our joy is no longer found in making ourselves the center. Because Christ is our greatest treasure, we can find true joy in knowing Him, glorifying Him, and serving others for His sake. We do not merely serve others because we have to; by God’s grace, we can delight in doing so because we are following the One who first humbled Himself and served us.
As Jesus said, “The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve.”
May our joy be found in Christ, and may that joy overflow in humble service to God and to others.
All glory to God and to our Lord Jesus Christ.