"not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."(NIV) Philippians 2:4
Philippians 2 has been one of the sections in the bible that has changed how I live as a Christian. It encourages us as Christians to exhibit the mind of Christ in our life. In other words, to see Christ as our "Mentor", "an example", "a role model", to be humble and not be filled with pride.
The scripture says “esteem each other better than yourself”. This is well understood when we read Philippians 2:2-3 and even best from Philippians 2:5-8. We are encouraged to imitate (by having the mind of) Christ. The central idea is "Humility" and not "SELFISHness". It is a call for us to be humble, not be selfish and not to be filled with pride.
We as Christians have been crucified with Christ and we no longer live but Christ lives in us (Galatians 2:20). Living the life of Christ in us also means exhibiting his humble and obedient life style in our life.
Becoming genuinely interested in other people, talking in the terms of the other person's interest, showing respect for the other person's opinions, being a good listener, smiling, sharing, trying honestly to see things from the other person's point of view, does strengthen our relationships as Christians and makes other people like us.
Please, let's not be selfish. This way of life does not only bring believers close to you, it attracts non-Christians to come to know Christ by your humble life style.
I encourage you to make a difference in your society. Take interest in others as you demonstrate the humble and obedient life of Christ in you.
Remember to take an interest in others because it pays greatly.
Hymn: Beloved, let us love;
Love is of God;
In God alone hath love
Its true abode.
Beloved, let us love;
For they who love,
They only, are his sons,
Born from above.