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| October 9, 2001 |
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| "If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Fulfill ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God." Philippians 2:1-6 Sometimes mountain trails have stretches so narrow that two bikers can barely pass each other. Only as one stands still at the side can the other go by safely. If both were to insist on their own way, danger could turn into disaster. Often on life's trail, our desires conflict with those of someone else. All too often neither gives in willingly ~ ending with harmful results in the relationship. Jesus gives us guidelines to help in handling such situations. You will recall Him in the garden of Gethsemane, when He asked His Father whether there was another way other than Calvary for Him. But He did not insist on His own way! In keeping with His Father's will, He chose the way of the cross, suffering for the world's sinners. Now, forgiven through faith in Him, we are able to forgive others. Loved by Him, we also can love ~ not only God, but others as well. Part of this love is not to insist on our own way! We must give heed to God's way! When His Word clearly speaks, we must follow, no matter how much conflict results. But when it's just merely a matter of our way instead of another's, because of Jesus, we can willingly yield for the other to pass. Application: Many people, Christians included, live only to make a good impression on others or to please themselves. But selfishness brings discord. Before God, we are all sinners, saved only by grace through His Son, Jesus Christ. Because of our salvation we have great worth in God's Kingdom. We therefore should lay aside selfishness and treat others with respect and common courtesy, as Jesus did. Considering others interests as more important than our own links us with Christ, Who is a true example of humility. May God bless you with a wonderful day as you yield to others when love requires it. Love in Christ, Sandy |