DAY SEVEN
Prayer places value on people – Philippians 2:3-5 3Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. 4Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. 5Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Let nothing be done through strife
- Paul is instructing us to refuse to be in opposition with one another and to share the same interests as the body of Christ.
- Our labor must be for the welfare of the whole body, recognizing that each of us function in the use of various gifts.
- Our reputation takes back seat to the consideration of the whole.
But in lowliness of mind
- Humbleness is not having a low opinion of yourselves, it is not thinking of yourselves. This kind of mind will help you prefer others over yourself.
- Each of us have faults that could cause us to be unlovely to one another. However, love will help us to view others in the best light and will give everyone the benefit of the doubt.
Look not every man on his own things
- Our motivation has to be checked for selfishness. Why do we do the things we do? Is it for our self-interest or the interest of others.
- All glory goes to God. When we promote God’s glory and the salvation of men, God is honored.
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus
- The mind of Christ is seen in Jesus’ way of humbling Himself in obedience to the death of the cross.
- He made no reputation for Himself. Everything He did was to bring glory to the Father.
- Let us do the same…let us be humble, patient, laboring for the will of God and let us finish our work.
Prayer
"Lord, help me to see the value in others like You do. May my words be kind and my heart always pure in every relationship. I realize that You have given multiple gifts to your people. I choose to look for the good in others and be accepting of their talents, gifts and personalities just as I would want them to be accepting of mine. May my cup always be ready to receive more from You and those You send to pour into my life. Be exalted Oh God!"
