Written by Chuck Swindoll, these encouraging devotional thoughts are published seven days per week.
Read Philippians 3:17; 1 Corinthians 11:1; 2 Timothy 3:10–12
Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us. (Philippians 3:17)
Imitate me, just as I imitate Christ. (1 Corinthians 11:1)
Read James 1:2–4
Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. (James 1:2–4)
Read Philippians 3:7–9, 12
Read Philippians 3:1
Whatever happens, my dear brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord. I never get tired of telling you these things, and I do it to safeguard your faith. (Philippians 3:1)
All this leads me to a terribly important subject I have been wanting to address. I’m unable to restrain myself any longer...and I especially have in mind those of you who can’t stand coming in second because you face a great temptation.
Read Philippians 3:4
Indeed, if others have reason for confidence in their own efforts, I have even more! (Philippians 3:4)
Read Philippians 2:25–26, 29–30
Meanwhile, I thought I should send Epaphroditus back to you. He is a true brother, co-worker, and fellow soldier. And he was your messenger to help me in my need. I am sending him because he has been longing to see you....Welcome him in the Lord’s love and with great joy, and give him the honor that people like him deserve. For he risked his life for the work of Christ, and he was at the point of death while doing for me what you couldn't do from far away. (Philippians 2:25–26, 29–30)
Read Philippians 2:21
All the others care only for themselves and not for what matters to Jesus Christ. (Philippians 2:21)
Since none of us is a whole, independent, self-sufficient, super-capable, all-powerful hotshot, let’s quit acting like we are. Life’s lonely enough without our playing that silly role.
The game’s over. Let’s link up!
Read Philippians 4:1
Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stay true to the Lord. I love you and long to see you, dear friends, for you are my joy and the crown I receive for my work. (Philippians 4:1)
Old habits are terribly hard to break. As soon as you attempt to bring some necessary balance into your life, you are going to have a fight on your hands. After all, self has had its way for years. Giving you the freedom to laugh again and bring some needed joy into your life is not on self’s agenda.
Read Philippians 2:15–16; Matthew 5:16
Prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, holding firmly the word of life, so that on the day of Christ I can take pride because I did not run in vain nor labor in vain… (Philippians 2:15–16 NASB)
Read Philippians 2:3–4
Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. (Philippians 2:3–4 NASB)
As I consider Paul’s counsel, three practical ideas emerge that may help us cultivate an unselfish attitude.
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