Senior Pastor’s Devotional
Day 46 Movement Control Order – “Strategic Psalm 91 Watch”
SCRIPTURES TO READ:- PHILIPPIANS 2:1-11.
LESSON TO BE LEARNT: JOY INSPITE OF PEOPLE.
People can rob us of our joy. Paul was facing his problems with people at Rome (1:15-18) as well as with people in Philippi. In this passage, Paul wanted to show them that disunity is not going to be solved by rules or threats but it is going to be solved when our hearts are right with Christ and with each other.
1. In verses 3 and 4, Paul gives us counsels against disunity. What are they and how will it contribute to good relationship with others?
a. We must do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. (verse 3).
When we do not come in with our personal agenda, we are ready to work alongside with others. Example:- Our Love Cheras Projects are not to promote an individual church. We are there to promote the gospel and impact the community.
b. Self Centeredness – “Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” (verse 4). Self centeredness tends to ‘forget others’. This attitude can push others away or even hurt others. Example:- Our society today. We face people who may be inconsiderate in their actions and attitudes in public places.
2. From verses 5 to 11, Paul illustrated through the life of Jesus, the 3 characteristics that a person should have inorder to contribute to the unity of the body and subsequently bring joy to others.
a. Verse 5 & 6.
Humility. When a person is humble he can be easier to talk to; easier to work with and easier to get along with versus a proud person who will be haughty and difficult in all aspects. Jesus is the best example. He was so approachable to both the young and the old as well as everyone else.
b. Verse 7.
Servanthood. When every person has a heart of serving others, the world would be a much joyous place. Jesus again set a great example of taking the initiative to serve us with His love. In life, when we learn to serve or help others, we not only make others happy but we will find the joy of living ourselves!
c. Verse 8.
Sacrifice. Jesus sacrificed Himself for us. He paid a price!Serving others should sometimes incur a price. It could be your time, your comfort; your convenience or even money. If we know how to pay those price, we are a catalyst of joy to others!
Conclusion:-
What would happen if everyone takes upon these characteristics? It will eliminate so many misunderstandings and unhappiness. Let us strive to be a ‘joy giver’ instead of being a ‘joy stealer!’
Ps Lawrence.