Happiness Comes From the Joy of Others

Philippians 2:3-8 (CEB): Happiness Comes From the Joy of Others

Don’t do anything for selfish purposes, but with humility think of others as better than yourselves. Instead of each person watching out for their own good, watch out for what is better for others. Adopt the attitude that was in Christ Jesus:

. . .  he emptied himself

. . .  he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Being others-focused brings me peace. Focusing on myself, however, does the opposite. As a husband and father, I confront my own selfish behavior on a daily basis. Both Paul’s advice and Jesus’ example are perfect reminders for us all -- “Instead of each person watching out for their own good, watch out for what is better for others.”

As Paul points out in his letter to the church at Philippi, there has been disunity among the early Christian faithful. Why? Because people have been putting themselves first. As a prescribed antidote, Paul points to the humility and self giving of Jesus: “[Jesus] humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”

As twenty-first century Americans, we are programmed to self satisfy. And when we look around our culture, more people are dissatisfied than ever. Therefore, let’s take Paul’s advice to “watch out for what is better for others” and “adopt the attitude that was in Christ Jesus.”

Heavenly Father, guide us to live lives of humility and love for others. In Jesus Christ’s name we pray, amen.

Have a blessed week!

Stan