Putting Others First

“So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

Devotional Thoughts:
Paul calls believers to be “of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.” Unity does not happen automatically. It requires humility, love, and a willingness to consider others.

Paul gives a clear instruction: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit.” Our decisions, conversations, and service should not be driven by the desire to be noticed, praised, or placed above others. Instead, “in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” That does not mean your own needs do not matter. Paul says to “look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

Biblical humility makes room for both. We care for what God has entrusted to us while also paying attention to the needs of the people around us.

Families, churches, friendships, and teams become stronger when we choose the same love, pursue unity, and genuinely look to the interests of others.

Practical Application:

• Ask God to reveal any selfish ambition or conceit in your heart.
• Look for one opportunity today to count someone else as more significant than yourself.
• Pay attention not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of someone around you.
• Choose words and actions that promote unity instead of division.
• Find one practical way this week to serve someone without seeking recognition.

Father, help me to walk in humility and love. Remove selfish ambition and conceit from my heart. Teach me to count others more significant than myself and to look not only to my own interests, but also to the interests of others. Help me pursue unity and reflect the heart of Jesus in every relationship. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

-Pastor Dwight