Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus. Philippians 2:3-5
In the social climate we live in today, do we see these words in action? You wouldn’t think so by watching the news or the hundreds of television programs we have access to. Yet this was Paul’s admonition to the church. Do we put the interests of others above ourselves in the kingdom of God? I would hope the answer would be yes.
Humility is how Christ lived his life. He served others, loved others and did the work of the Father. None of his works were done to gain attention or move up the ladder. He simply wanted to give life to those who needed him.
Jesus’ life is a wonderful example of how we should live our lives. There are so many words of encouragement we can share, so many times we can take a few minutes to listen to others and make that person’s day. At church Sunday, my pastor made the comment, look for reasons to qualify believers and speak life into them and about them. What would speaking love into someone’s life mean to them? To the Mom who’s spent the morning running around with the children and is now late for work? To the homeless man on the corner holding a sign asking for food? Speaking life into people is more than just words. It’s action. It’s putting others above ourselves.
Many years ago when I first decided to seriously pursue writing, I became involved in a local writing group. I was amazed by the published authors who shared so much of how the business worked and how to better the craft. When my pastor asked in his message, do we desire the success of others in life and ministry, I thought of the talented authors who gave so much of their time and asked nothing in return. It would be so easy to be cut-throat and only out for one’s self in the publishing industry, yet I saw firsthand how generous the authors were and still are.
What about in the church? In our dealings with those who have lost their way? Do we desire to put them first? Celebrate their successes, even if we haven’t quite arrived at the place we dream to be?
Maybe my pastor’s sermon was a reminder to myself. People are hurting in the world and it’s up to us to love them. To value them, even if what we see on the outside doesn’t seem lovable. Jesus found reasons to qualify people and he paid the ultimate price to qualify them. If we are to be Christlike, then we must affirm His love through words and actions.
Words which do not give the light of Christ increase the darkness.-Mother Teresa
November has always been a month associated with thanks. Perhaps it would be fitting this month to remember to value others above ourselves. To walk in humility as Christ did. To have the mindset of Christ. It’s a challenge well worth taking.
Tara Randel is an award-winning, USA Today bestselling author of fifteen novels. Family values, a bit of mystery and, of course, love and romance, are her favorite themes, because she believes love is the greatest gift of all. Look for her next Harlequin Heartwarming romance, HIS ONE AND ONLY BRIDE, available January 2018. Visit Tara at www.tararandel.com. Like her on Facebook at Tara Randel Books
Available now, Heartwarming Holiday Wishes.
The Christmas Window
Widow CeCe Walker has her hands full taking care of her nephew and staging the holiday window decorations at Dockery’s Department store. The last thing she’s looking for is romance. Jace Keller is in Christmas Town to check out the window featuring his new sportswear line. Sparks fly when the two are at odds over his display, but with a little holiday magic, can this couple find love for Christmas?
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