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Philippians 2:1-4
The Apostle Paul begins Philippians 2:1 (NKJV) with the word “Therefore” and indicates that we first need to see what the “Therefore” is there for. Reflecting on Paul’s guidance for the Christian brothers and sisters at Philippi in Philippians 1:27, he states, “Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ. . .” “Therefore,” as Paul begins the second chapter of his letter to the church at Philippi, if there is any of this conduct worthy of the gospel of Christ within them, Paul wants them to be working together as a solid unit, showing comfort of love, fellowship of the Spirit, and affection and mercy (Philippians 2:1). Paul continues by stating that this will bring joy, as it does to him as the unit of the church becomes unified, having the same mind and love that is found in and shown by Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:2). Paul gives warning in Philippians 2:3-4 to not do these things out of selfish ambition or conceit, but to put others first in looking out for the needs of one another.
This is a command to put on the mind of Christ.
This is an example of the “oneness” in Christ that we all should have as Christians/God’s children.
This is a promise of the joy that will fill our hearts, souls, and minds if we will let our conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ (Philippians 1:27).
As Christians, we all know the ways in which the Bible teaches us to conduct ourselves in the way of the gospel of Jesus Christ; it is the actual implementation of it that is the struggle in this world as Satan throws all his arsenal at us to prevent us from doing so. I believe that the biggest thing we can do in this struggle is to always remember, and keep at the forefront of our minds, is to know and to constantly remind ourselves that Jesus has defeated the devil for us; we just need to keep our faith in Him to help us overcome the trial and tribulations we will face in this world. As we strive to be of oneness in Christ, our support in looking after each other’s needs will bring us all joy – in Christ!
Dear LORD,
Please help us all to realize and understand today that as Christians we are striving to “put on” Jesus in our lives and to follow in His footsteps. Please help us to put others before ourselves and bring joy to everyone, everywhere – in Christ. In Jesus name I pray, amen.