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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.

First, never let selfishness or conceit be your motive. That’s right, never. That is Paul’s advice, isn’t it? “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit” (emphasis mine).

Read Philippians 2:1–2; Matthew 11:28–30

Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. (Philippians 2:1–2)

Read Philippians 1:27

Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News. (Philippians 1:27)

So many live their lives too dependent on others. Such clinging vines draw most, if not all, of their energy from another. Not only is this unhealthy for the clinger, but it also drains too much energy from the clingee!

Read Philippians 1:25–26; 1 Peter 5:6–7

Knowing this, I am convinced that I will remain alive so I can continue to help all of you grow and experience the joy of your faith. And when I come to you again, you will have even more reason to take pride in Christ Jesus because of what he is doing through me. (Philippians 1:25–26)

Read Philippians 1:3–6

Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now. (Philippians 1:3–6)

When Christ becomes our central focus—our reason for existence—contentment replaces our anxiety as well as our fears and insecurities. This cannot help but impact three of the most prevalent joy stealers in all of life.

Read Philippians 1:19–20

For I know that as you pray for me and the Spirit of Jesus Christ helps me, this will lead to my deliverance. For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed, but that I will continue to be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past. And I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die. (Philippians 1:19–20)

Read Philippians 1:6

And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. (Philippians 1:6)

Interestingly, Philippians is a letter from servants to saints. “Paul and Timothy...to all the saints in Christ Jesus in Philippi, including overseers and deacons” (Philippians 1:1 NASB). Today we might say, “to pastors and deacons” or to “elders and deacons.”

Read Philippians 1:6, 21–22

For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better. But if I life, I can do more fruitful work for Christ. So I really don't know which is better. (Philippians 1:21–22)

Read John 15:11

I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow! (John 15:11)

God is no distant deity but a constant reality, a very present help whenever needs occur. So? So live like it. And laugh like it! Paul did. While he lived, he drained every drop of joy out of every day that passed. How do I know? This little letter to the Philippians says so as we see in the chapters of Philippians.

Read Philippians 4:10; 2 Corinthians 11:23–28; Acts 28:30

For I have learned to be content with whatever I have.(Philippians 4:10)