The Path to Perfect Peace – Follow Jesus’ Humility: Value Others

Key Verse

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. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus…

Philippians 2:3-5 (NIV)

Short Reflection

What motivates us to follow Jesus’ mindset of humility and value others above ourselves? His Spirit, who constantly assures our otherwise fickle, insecure, and stubborn heart of God’s unfailing love.

What a fruit from the Spirit! – the joy of choosing to value others, to enter into the other person’s world, unraveling the gift of his personhood, seeing his significance, knowing that our Lord Jesus valued him as much and died for him as for me and you.

Practical is the logic behind valuing others above ourselves. First, because we are soberly conscious of our own limitations and weaknesses. Second, because the other person is definitely bringing something to help me and the rest. Third, because we plant the seed of friendship. This pleases the Lord and delights the Holy Spirit who purposed such for inter-personal relationships.

Understanding the logic behind allows us to make the principle govern our lifestyle rather than be led by our moods, emotions, or prejudices. We choose to listen, understand and appreciate the other person. Not asking what is in it for me, rather what the person gains because he is genuinely valued.

At the end of the day, we experience the peace of God as the Holy Spirit reins our will and heart.

This is the second in the “Follow Jesus’ Humility” series of blog posts and is prepared by Elizabeth Venegas from our Filipino partner, The Center for Community Transformation.