Philippians Chapter 2: 19-22 (NIV)
I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel.
Colossians Chapter 3 : Verses 23-24 (NIV)
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Paul looked on Timothy as a son, and here he is commended by Paul to the Philippians to look after them on Paul’s behalf. An empathetic young man who would support the church in Paul’s absence. But Timothy had the best teacher, he was following Paul’s example. He learned to stand firm and put aside his own fears and anxieties, which we read of in Paul’s letters to him, and put the needs of others before his own, as Paul did. Sometimes putting others first means we have to go out of our way to do things we would rather not do. We read here in the letter to the Philippians that human nature was the same then as it is today. Paul tells the church they need to be different from the majority of people who will put their own interests first. And isn’t it just as true today when we often here the maxim quoted, “look out for number one”. God’s plan for us is that we are to have a life of service, following the example of Jesus Himself. To some that comes easier than it does for others. Paul also told the Philippians that they were to do it with the right attitude as well – without grumbling or complaining. Our attitude will be correct if we remember what he also told the Colossian church. We are doing it on Jesus’ behalf first and foremost, not for any recognition or commendation for ourselves.
In today’s notes for the Bible in One Year, Nicky Gumbel observes, “What he wants for your life is good. It will not necessarily be easy, but you will not be able to improve on his plan. He will also give you the energy you need: ‘That energy is God’s energy, an energy deep within you, God himself willing and working at what will give him the most pleasure’” And after all, think of the pleasure we ourselves will feel, knowing that what we are doing for God brings pleasure to Him.
Dear Lord,
I ask that You keep the attitude of my heart right before you so that I will do everything wholeheartedly whilst showing genuine concern for others, but working as if I am doing all things directly for You. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.