A True Servant Attitude

Scripture – Philippians 2:19-24: I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. I have no one else like him, who takes a genuine interest in your welfare. For everyone looks out for his own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel. I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. And I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon.

Observation – To have someone like Timothy! How many people do I know like that? Not many at all. What do I have to do to become a person like that? I have a deep concern for my “own interests.” In fact, it’s very hard for me to come at life and ministry without first running it through that personal filter – how will this affect me? On my good days, loving and serving those around me comes first. However, not every day is a good one in that sense. So I end up obeying and serving out of discipline rather than from my heart.

Application – I will consciously let myself serve today out of love. I will avoid feeding my “me first” attitude.

Prayer – Lord, that’s a tall order. Give me strength and a new attitude to look after your interests this day. I cannot do that without you.

A Day Without Whining

Scripture - Philippians 2:14-18: Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life—in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing. But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.

Observation – Sometimes “complaining and arguing” are enjoyable. For many people that’s part of who they are. For me, I find it far easier to slip into complaining rather than to remain quiet. Yet we are called to be different – to “shine like stars in the universe.” At the same time, while being different sets us apart, we are also called to “hold out the word of life.” What are the implications of that today?

Application – I will avoid complaining today. I will not argue – at least, not over trivial concerns. Can I go a day without complaining? Perhaps the better sense of the word is “whining.” That, too, will not be easy.

Prayer – Help me, Lord, to live with you in mind today. Remind me of your quiet acceptance of your cross. Empower me to be silent this day. For I already have some whining complaints ready to go.

Working Out Our Salvation

Scripture – Philippians 2:12-13: Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

Observation – The call is for the Philippians to keep growing in their faith – even/especially now that Paul’s not with them. Each of us works out our own salvation – developing our own personal relationship with Christ. At the same time we do that together, as part of a larger community of faith. The key is remembering it is God who works in us – both “to will and to act according to his good purpose.” The growing edge in working out my salvation is simply allowing God to do His shaping work with me.

Application – I will identify one point of resistance within me, and I will surrender one more part of who I am to the will and control of Christ.

Prayer – Lord, thank you for your continuing work in my life. Please keep growing in me and shaping me today, that I would be more like you when this day is over.