Philippians 2:3-4
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
I suppose if I were constant in my attitude of giving, I would never even think of being envious. I would always be looking to give or to serve, and never expecting recognition or thanks. I do think it is human nature to compare ourselves to others and to wish for more. I am constantly envious of those whose piano playing is better than my own. (I think Tom can vouch for the veracity of that statement.) At times I have considered whether to play for others at all, because I make so many mistakes. But I know that is not God’s will for me. It is also not God’s will for me to stop playing just because others can play better.
Holy Lord, you have stood by me and helped me to give to others even when my courage and my confidence have wavered. Help me to continue to give what I can; without envy, without judgement and without self-reproach. I am so thankful. Amen
Becky, transforming
Pic by Kay
Philippians 2:3-4
I wish I could say that I have never been selfish but , of course, that simply would not be true. It does seem that the older I get the easier it is to not be selfish. This scripture will help me to be more aware of the needs of others, even if it is something as simple as not trying to beat someone to that “perfect” parking space.
Heavenly Father, please help me to consider others daily, put their needs ahead of mine and take interest in them in a genuine manner. Amen.
Philippians 2:3-4
There is a fine line between envy and jealousy. Several of us have been using both words in our writing. I've thought a lot about this and I decided that, for me, jealousy (the green monster) is more like coveting something from someone and, therefore, selfish and envy is more like admiration for someone or something you wish you could do. I feel that as I have aged. I feel jealousy seldom and envy more.
Prayer: Gracious God, May I do more admiring of others talents and possessions. Amen