Being Willing

“Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” Philippians 2:3-4

I’m currently doing a study of Philippines this season and it’s been very powerful, convicting and humbling. In the above verses, the Lord has put a flashlight into my heart regarding my self-will and true motives.

In the verses in Philippians that follow these (verses 5-11) is our beloved Jesus’ example of a bondservant willingly loving and doing unto death. Jesus came in love, emptied of all outward appearance of God-ness and self-pride—obedient, as He did only as the Father directed and had planned—to death on a cross (utter suffering beyond our comprehension because it included the total wrath of God). All of this to pay the most expensive price ever, to cover the debt of sin for mankind throughout history.

Wow, every time I read this section, I’m stunned. Today the Lord is telling me to stay for a while and truly listen. Don’t rush over this.

Jesus came in human likeness and was the perfect Son of God, without sin. We have the Holy Spirit inside of us, directing, loving and enabling us to lay down our lives: “Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me'” (Luke 1:37).  

To do nothing out of selfish ambition, in humility, considering others should be my priority in all things. Of course, we should not let anyone take advantage and be abusive towards us, but from my own emptying of self and reality, all my energy and purpose stem from Christ. (I’m not abandoning who the Lord uniquely calls me to be in the journey.)

Being fully grounded and affirmed by the LORD, I can reach out to others, not worrying about my self-comforts, but attempting to encourage others, by whatever means, to trust Jesus, glorifying the Father. Again, with this thought I’m in the place of impossibility. Yet in humility to my Lord (because sometimes I’m not even willing to care about others), He gives me the desire, leads, and empowers me to live in His consideration for others. In and of myself it’s impossible, but with God, all things are possible (Matthew 19:26, Mark 9:23, Mark 10:27), and that’s encouraging.

This is a moment-by-moment daily process. Whether it be with our families, friends, co-workers, or people at the grocery store parking lot, the Lord will give growth opportunities, and I know He gently leads and gives strength. My part is to be willing and allow Him to work out the impossible. This is our adventure in Him.

Dear God, You are so worthy of our total obedience with joy. I pray for Your love and strength for each of us to willingly follow Your interests in heart, attitude and deeds daily. Amen