Philippians 2:1-18

In my bible, the heading for Chapter 2 is “Joy in Serving.” Serving is a genuine interest in others...to put others’ needs above my own...unselfishness...humility. Vs. 2b says “working together with one heart and purpose.”

Jesus did not demand his rights while He lived on the earth, saying, “I’m the Son of God, therefore you will do this or do that!” Rather he chose to willingly set aside his “rights” as the Son of God and serve people! Serving others does not mean that we put ourselves down or become a door mat, but rather that we see the needs of others as more important than our own needs...that we treat others with common courtesy and respect...that we serve without recognition for what we do and that we do it without complaining or arguing.

Have we ever excused our selfishness by claiming our “rights?” I’ve worked 40 hours and have earned the right to spend my Saturday doing what I want to do! I’ve heard it said by old people (those who are at least 150 years old!) “Well, I’m 150 years old and I’ve earned the right to say or do whatever I want to say or do!” We haven’t earned any such thing! It’s choice. Let’s choose to live like Jesus, to be willing to set aside our “rights,” and to think like Jesus thinks! BUT we cannot without the power of the Holy Spirit in us!

“For God is working in you, giving you the desire to obey him and the power to do what pleases Him.” (vs.13) Joy in serving is an attitude of heart! Let’s do what God wants us to do and trust Him to change our desires.