READ Philippians 2:1-4

The crux of this morning’s passage is for us to be others-focused.  Was not this the heart of our Saviour?  Verse four states, “Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.”

If we are to live a life focused upon others, we need to possess the Christlike traits that Paul lists in these four verses. In verse one Paul shares four attributes, they are consolation, love, fellowship in the Spirit, and compassion.

• Consolation speaks of extending comfort and encouragement to others.

• Love in this verse is the Greek “agape” which is the love that Jesus showed us when He gave Himself and sacrificed Himself for us. It is sacrificing for another, even when it is undeserved.

• Fellowship in the Spirit deals with interaction the believer has with the Holy Spirit who indwells us at the time of salvation. Thank God that we can fellowship and interact with the Holy Spirit.

• Compassion is spoken of utilizing the combination of the words “bowels” and “mercies”. The ancients believed that compassion originated within the innermost part of our being.

Verse two speaks of the attribute of joy that springs forth from corporate unity and a common mission.  “Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.”

Verse three speaks of the attribute of humility.  “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.”  

Finally, verse four speaks about the trait of controlling self-interest.  “Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.”

Consider the seven attributes found in this passage and seek to incorporate them into your life.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  Name some things that happen throughout life that cause people to need encouragement.  How can you encourage them?

2.  What kind of fellowship do you have with the Holy Spirit?  Do you fellowship often or rarely?

3.  What can you do to prevent spiritual pride and work toward a lifestyle of humility?

4.  What do you think makes a person become self-centered?

5.  What are some things you can do to break the mold of self-centeredness and exchange by becoming Christ-centered?