Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
Philippians 2:3-4
Devotional Message
When we put others before ourselves, we experience deeper fulfillment and stronger relationships. It is the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus exemplified and calls us to embody—to empty ourselves to serve others, prioritizing others’ welfare above our own. Yet this doesn’t mean we must neglect ourselves or have low self-esteem, but rather care for our well-being in a way that enables us to serve others more effectively. This is the essence of biblical humility—those who have transformed the world consistently put other people before themselves. They didn’t ask for the role, they stepped up to it. They chose it.
Within each relationship, we have the ability to put someone else before ourselves and consider their needs as more important than our own. But in a culture that promotes self-advancement above all else, overcoming our selfish ambitions becomes our greatest challenge, especially when we feel the other person isn’t worthy of it. However, when we fill our own hearts with God’s love, we develop an overflow of love to give to others. Through the practice of putting others first, we discover a paradox—we end up more fulfilled than when we focus solely on ourselves. This is what creates unity and harmony, transforming communities and deepening family bonds.
There is crucial balance, however, between caring for others and maintaining healthy boundaries. We must discern when and how to serve, when rest is needed, when our own spiritual tank is empty. Biblical humility doesn’t mean becoming a doormat—it means serving others from a place of strength and wisdom, following Christ’s example of both sacrificial love and appropriate boundaries.
Let’s Pray
Dear God, please help me recognize moments where I am acting from selfish ambition versus true love. While I need to prioritize my own health and well-being, I want to learn how to better put other people’s needs before my own desires, so I ask you to teach me how to serve others without neglecting necessary self-care. Through my relationships today, give me opportunities to look out for people’s interests and embody selfless love. I trust that all of my relationships with be more unified and harmonious through this new way of approaching them. Amen.
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