Unpacking Philippians 2:3: Finding Harmony Between Self-Care and Caring for Others
Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Philippians 2:3 (ESV).
I have been ruminating on this bible verse and here are my thoughts. The verse emphasizes putting others' needs and interests ahead of one's own and considering them more significant. The idea is not necessarily to negate or diminish one's own needs and interests, but to cultivate a mindset of selflessness, love, and service. Considering others as more significant doesn't mean neglecting ourselves or to behave as if others are better than we are. It doesn’t mean that we are less worthy than others. Instead, I think it is encouraging us to show genuine care and concern for the well-being of others and not just care about ourselves all the time.
The concept of considering others more significant is also about fostering a community of mutual respect and support. It promotes a mindset where individuals are interested in the needs of those around them and willingly contribute to their well-being.
You may be asking yourself: wouldn’t it be more practical for us to consider the needs and interests of others to be as important as our own, rather than considering them as being more significant than our own? It is a thought-provoking question, and my response is, "I don’t think so." Striking a balance is crucial. I don’t think the verse is telling us to neglect our well-being. The essence of the verse is that we should be selfless and loving towards others while maintaining a healthy awareness of our own needs.
In practical terms, I believe it involves acts of kindness, empathy, and generosity towards others. It's about being willing to sacrifice personal interests for the greater good and finding a harmonious balance between self-care and caring for others.
As I write this, another verse, Matthew 22:39, comes to mind: “And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (ESV). This was part of Jesus' response when asked about the greatest commandment, in which He emphasizes the importance of love and compassion towards one's neighbour. In this response by Jesus, he is instructing us to extend the same level of care, consideration and love that we show ourselves to others.
What are your views on Philippians 2:3?
Love, laugher and light!
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Very well ruminated and articulated Marsha. Indeed it is a question of balance. The truth is that it doesn’t come naturally for most of us to sacrifice self and put the needs of others before our own. And in fact it becomes that much harder to do in a world that is becoming increasingly more individualistic, selfish and self-centered. I think the key thing is constantly asking and reminding ourselves - WWJD - “What Would Jesus Do?” That has to be followed up by prayerful submission to God’s will, and it is I believe, in His strength that we can find the grace to love our neighbour as ourselves, and perhaps even beyond as the scripture in Phillipians suggests. Th…