Lives of Humility
As mentioned a few weeks ago, we are slowing things down a bit during the month of June and making space to sit with a few short passages of Scripture while prayerfully noticing what the Holy Spirit might highlight for us as we read it.
Begin by reading this passage from Philippians and notice if any words or phrases stand out to you today. You might write them down if that feels helpful.
Philippians 2:1-4
If, then, there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, make my joy complete by thinking the same way, having the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. Everyone should look not to his own interests, but rather to the interests of others.
Pause for a moment and consider what you noticed. Did anything surprise you? When you are ready, reread this passage and see what else might stand out.
Philippians 2:1-4
If, then, there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, make my joy complete by thinking the same way, having the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. Everyone should look not to his own interests, but rather to the interests of others.
Pause for a moment and consider what stood out to you. What might the Holy Spirit be inviting you to pay attention to today? Do these verses challenge you in any way? When you are ready, read this passage again.
Philippians 2:1-4
If, then, there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, make my joy complete by thinking the same way, having the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. Everyone should look not to his own interests, but rather to the interests of others.
Pause now and spend some time in prayer, talking with God about whatever feels important after reading these verses today. When you are ready, read this passage one last time.
Philippians 2:1-4
If, then, there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, make my joy complete by thinking the same way, having the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. Everyone should look not to his own interests, but rather to the interests of others.
Pause one last time and linger with Jesus. There is not a certain way this has to look for you. Maybe you want to spend time writing, maybe you want to go and stand outside, maybe you want to sit in quiet and stillness—whatever might help you be present with Jesus. Linger here for as long as you like. May you be reminded of how deeply you are loved.
~ Melissa