Interests

Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Philippians 2:4

This passage stuck out to me today in the midst of other scriptures because I have been talking a lot with people pleasers. There is, in my opinion, nothing wrong with trying to please others. However, there is something wrong with always doing it at your own expense. If that is what God wanted this scripture would read “Don’t look out for your own interests, but only the interest of others.”

We can not always be thinking all about other people, or always be thinking just about ourselves. There are times when self care is needed and for us to seek our own interests. There are also times we will set aside our own interests for the sake of others. 

I immediately think of marriage and parenting. Both are times that we naturally set aside our own interests. While self care is important, we will find ourself making more sacrifices in these two relationships. Another example would be when we are serving in the ministry of others. We set aside our own interests to fulfill the vision for the ministry.  From time to time, our interests and the vision may align but for the most part our role is serving another, their interest is primary. 

The thing about setting aside our own interests in marriage (or any other relationship for this matter)is that if we were doing our part, then at some point our interests are taken into consideration. When we are always setting aside out interests for the sake of another, it is easy to get resentful and weary in doing good.

I think even Jesus modeled this for us at Gethsemane. He knew what laid ahead of Him at Calvary. He was weary. He asked for what He needed from the disciples “Could you pray with Me? Could you keep watch with Me?” He also took time to get alone and spend time with God in prayer. He needed God to attend to Him. The people that followed Jesus were concerned about what He could do for them. It was not about them looking to His interest until after when they began to spread His Kingdom.

We have an innate desire to have things our own way. We see it in young children who try to exert their will. We see it in rebellious teenagers. We see it when we submit to our flesh instead of waling in the Spirit. I think that is why we are challenged to also consider the interests of others.

Lord, lately I have felt like no one but You cares about my interests. I admit I find myself weary and resentful. I know that You care about my interests. The things that You have placed within my heart are there for a reason. I want someone to care in the flesh Lord, please show me.