Philippians 2:4
“do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others”.
This is what love looks like. It natural to look out for one’s own interests. We need to look up and see our surroundings. The people there are looking out for their interests. We may be in the way. It doesn’t mean we move, but to act considerately.
This is what parents teach their children. To be considerate. It takes time. Many adults don’t do this. They thrive off their selfishness. It doesn’t have the intended results. They think it would satisfy themselves to be the entire focus of their attention. It leads to emptiness.
That’s one of life’s paradoxes. To be full, one must empty himself. Many of Jesus’ comments were like that. “The first will be last and the last will be first”, “take the lower seat” and “take up one’s cross and follow me”. Following God’s way and trusting Him with these paradoxes is what brings joy.
Proverbs 3:5,6 gives important advice when it comes to faith. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.” Our understanding won’t bring us in His way. That is unless we’ve been sanctified and we are convinced of it. I now know this. Like Solomon who was weary with life and attempting to satisfy himself, most know how empty life can be. Try God.
Lord, thank You for Your ways. They are so satisfying. Being selfish can glut one to where they are sick. However, Your ways are satisfying.
Psalm 19:7-10 says, “The Law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the soul; The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the LORD are true; they are righteous altogether. They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much pure gold; Sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb.” Isaiah 30:21b says, “This is the way. Walk in it.” I read this and am refreshed. It is cleansing, it is restoring.
Thank You, Lord, for your ways. They are so right. As we obey them You fill us. You do this as a reward and as an “atta boy”. You bless those we assist. That’s the way it’s supposed to be.