The World Does Not Revolve around Me

In review of Philippians 2:4 it says, “Look out for one another’s interests, not just for your own” (GNT).

Today’s verse is from the first part of Philippians 2:4 where Paul reminds me to not just think about my own interests, but be interested in others, too, and in what they are doing.

Paul encourages me to guard against any selfishness, prejudice, or jealousy that might lead to dissension. Showing genuine interest in others is a positive steps forward in maintaining unity.

There’s an old proverb that says, “Seek to understand before seeking to be understood.” The Bible talks about this as well in today’s verse.

However this is such a countercultural verse. Everything in our society conditions me to think of myself first. I don’t think about other people naturally. It’s something I have to learn to do. I naturally think about my own needs, desires, goals, and ambitions. There are millions of people disconnected because they’re only thinking of themselves and not anyone else’s needs.

Rick Warren shares two very basic truths about life. First, the world does not revolve around me. I’m incredibly special in God’s eyes, and I was created for a purpose, but the world does not revolve around me. If I want to know how much I’d be missed, stick your hand in a bucket of water and pull it out, and see what kind of hole you leave. It fills back up pretty quickly!

The second truth is this: God has promised that when I focus on meeting the needs of other people, he will meet my needs. Why? Because he wants me to learn to be unselfish. He wants me to learn to be loving and generous like he is. When I’m considerate of other people’s needs, I won’t expect them to be perfect. “Make allowance for each other’s faults” (Colossians 3:13 NLT). I’m not perfect, so why should I demand it of anybody else?

Proverbs 17:9 says, “Love forgets mistakes” (TLB). When I’m trying to make a connection with someone, I don’t have to remain blind to that person’s faults. I just choose to overlook them. Great friends are good forgetters. They are more concerned with the other person’s needs.

In summary, I shouldn't just think of my own interests and needs, but be interested in others and what they are doing. After all, the work doesn't revolve around me and when I focus on meeting the needs of others, he will take care of my needs.

Today Father I pray that I can take the time to listen to others and be interested in them and their needs. I pray for your wisdom and guidance for my day, my leadership and my interactions with others. I pray this in your Son Jesus name, amen.