Philippians 2:21
“For they all seek after their own interests, not those of Christ Jesus.”
Paul is speaking about Timothy. He is sending him to Philippi to minister to the church there. What a great compliment Paul pays him. As a christian we would like that said of us.
I would say it’s natural to look after one’s interest. That’s survival. But we aren’t to stop there. We should be considerate of others. Galatians 6:2 and 5 say that we are to “Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ” then, “For each one will bear his own load.” Both are important. Our parents raise us to be self sufficient, but they also teach us to be caring.
If we aren’t self sufficient, the we are a burden on others and society. In our present day, homelessness is a huge problem. They aren’t bearing their own burdens, but putting it on others and society.
When we come to Christ the church and God work on us to be self sufficient. Others tell us, but so does the bible, “Each shall bear his own load”. The Holy Spirit also prompts us to be self sufficient. He will bring it to remembrance in a situation that requires it. It’s His job. That’s Jesus’ explanation in John 16:7, “Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you.” Jesus in His human condition was bound to one place at a time, but the Spirit can be everywhere at the same time. Thank You, God. You are a great Helper.
God also works within us to care for others. Just as Timothy did. Our pastors challenge us to do so, others do and the Holy Spirit also brings up situations in which we are to be caring and self sacrificial. It’s part of growing in Christ. Some have the gift of helps. They love to help others with tasks. We all are to help to some degree, but those with that gift thrive on it. Others are encouragers. We all are to be to some degree, but those with the gift are amazing in that setting.
Jesus shared a parable in which He shares the goal we all want to aspire to. We all want the Lord to say this, “His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You were faithful over a few things; I will set you over many things. Enter into the joy of your master!'” (Matthew 25:23).
Lord, thank You that You work in us to be self sufficient and also to care for others. We hope to glorify Your name by doing so.