PHILIPPIANS 2:3-4  Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

PHILIPPIANS 2:3-4  Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests but also to the interests of others.

It is easier to see things from our perspective; our thinking always seems so much more reasonable than the other person’s ideas. Philippians adjures us not to seek our own way at the risk of hurting others. We are to avoid strife when possible. We must try to understand and respect others’ opinions in order to work as a team.

Easier said than done, huh? You may ask, “Aren’t there times that a disagreement is unavoidable? What if the issue involves sinful actions?” The key words are “lowliness of mind.” We must stand for what is godly and righteous, but we are also to stand with humility desiring the best for all those involved. We must be considerate of others’ opinions even when they are in direct opposition to our own. Learn to check messages to make sure you are communicating accurately. (Is this what you are saying? I understand that you feel…). Do not compromise right for wrong. However, sometimes you can offer creative solutions that do not require you to disobey God. Be friendly in your discussions and allow others to keep their opinion. If you are the authority, you must make the decision when compromise is not possible. If they are your authority, you must submit as long as the action does not cause you to sin. (You must always obey the highest authority.) If you are equals, you may need to work independently if a compromise is not found.        

True love is not self-seeking (I Cor. 13:5) and true humility thinks of others’ needs. If we truly esteem the other person better than we do ourselves, we consider them #1. If they are serving God and they esteem you as better than themselves, they will consider you #1. If you are #1 in their eyes and they are #1 in your eyes, then there is no #2. This is God’s plan for coworkers in His Kingdom.  Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the sons of God (Matt. 5:9).

Dear God—It is so hard to give up my opinion. Help me to be reasonable. Teach me to listen to someone else’s opinion and be willing to learn. Also, help me to communicate clearly, so my ideas can be understood. Above all, teach me humility, submission, and the meaning of true love.