Mar 13 2022

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Humility is not always appreciated as a valuable quality in our culture. Entire advertising campaigns are built around the idea that we should seek ways to better ourselves to get where we want to go—even if it means pushing others out of our way. Sometimes humility is even viewed as a sign of weakness.

Jesus embodied humility in every single word and action. He was not the least bit weak, and the world didn't understand how someone could be both strong and humble at the same time.

In this afternoon's verse, Paul is encouraging the church at Philippi to come together in unity. People were arguing with each other, and their individual actions were causing division in the church. He instructs them to consider others better than themselves in an effort to model the example that Jesus set for us.

It can be a challenge to put other people's needs and desires ahead of our own. It almost always requires some type of sacrifice of our time, effort, or possessions. But when we look to Jesus' life as a model, we see a loving Savior who humbly sacrificed all of Himself for us.

While we know it's pleasing to the Lord, the benefits of having a humble spirit are not always seen during our lifetime. When we enter into eternity, we will understand how our obedience to God made a lasting impact on the world.

Dear God, today, I humble myself before you. Everything I have and am is a result of your grace and love in my life. There are times when my pride tempts me to seek my own gain. In those moments, remind me of your goodness in my life. Help me to always put others above myself. In Jesus' name, amen.

Mar 12 2022

The words of a wise man's mouth are gracious; but the lips of a fool will swallow up himself. :

Each of us has a circle of influence consisting of people from our families, churches, schools, professions, and social lives. These are all people we may potentially influence—in a good way or a not-so-good way. Our actions have the potential to bring out the best or worst not only in us, but also others.

In Ecclesiastes, King Solomon shows us the difference between being wise and living foolishly. The contrast between wisdom and foolishness isn't the same as being a genius versus having a low IQ. In the Bible, a wise person's entire life is based on God. The person lives solely to glorify God in word and deed, whereas a foolish person makes up his or her own mind about what is good or bad. Those who are foolish may be moral people or live a life filled with sin, but they do not live dependent on God.

This verse specifically addresses our speech and how we communicate with others. A foolish person's speech is the polar opposite of a wise person's way of communicating. Wise words are gracious, kind, and beneficial to others. Foolish words hurt others and consume the fool.

We can gain wisdom in our lives by obeying God's commands, spending time with Him in prayer, and learning from faithful followers of Jesus. The same can be said about investing time with fools. We will assume their character flaws and become more foolish.

Let's choose to be aware of our impact on others. Our prayer should be that God would guide and direct us by His incredible wisdom.

God, I realize my words have power. When I communicate with others, I want my speech to reflect your wisdom. Forgive me for the times when I have spoken carelessly. Please make me aware of anyone I may have hurt with my words. If I have been offended by something that someone else has said, then give me the grace to forgive them and the peace to move on. In Jesus' name, amen.


Add to Favorites

← View Last Verse View Next Verse →