“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others as better than yourselves.” Philippians 2:3 (NIV)
CHALLENGE
Pray for our church family to live in peace with others as much as possible.
PREPARATION
- Praise God for who He is
- Confess your sinfulness and need for cleansing
- Allow His Spirit to draw you near
- Listen as He speaks to you
REQUESTS
- Pray for those who contribute to our church family’s well-being in innumerable but “invisible, behind the scenes ways”; that they may understand that, while lacking in earthly glamour and prestige, their efforts are immeasurable and significant.
- Pray for our people who, due to the high profile nature of their area of service, may be susceptible to arrogance, pride, self-aggrandizement.
- Pray for our interactions with each other; that in times that call for compromise and cooperation, we possess the humility to employ them wholeheartedly; for the courage to stand steadfast in those circumstances that have a clear ‘right and wrong’ to them; and the wisdom to know the difference.
THANKSGIVING
- Thank God for hearing you.
- Trust that God is at work to accomplish His will.
OPTIONAL READINGS
- James 4:6
LIFE STORY
This scripture has three distinct parts.
The first part, ‘Do nothing out of selfish ambition…,’ admonishes us how not to behave. Selfishness, ambition, (the unGodly kind) vanity and conceit are not qualities those who follow Christ should possess or desire. This list gives us a tangible way to do a reality check on our motives and alter our subsequent behaviour, should it seem to be driven by one of these unhealthy forces.
‘…but in humility…’ leads us to examine the definition of ‘humility’: that is, to be modest, courteous, respectful, to lower oneself in condition and importance. I, for one, believe humility’s gotten a bad rap, much like ‘meekness’. It is often seen as a weakness when, in truth, it is only the strong who can exhibit it. Witness Jesus, fully God, humbling Himself to become human and you get a clear picture that humility is not for wimps!
‘…better than yourselves.’ This chunk can immediately set off alarm bells in even the most secure person, but it’s important to remember that it’s not suggesting you are of less value or worth; simply that you are choosing to put another’s needs ahead of your own. It is in the choosing where the power lies, coming from the well of grace and self-control that only the Holy Spirit can provide. (scripture promises that He gives grace to the humble).
Contributed by: Heather Cressman