Better for Others First

I do not want to sound like someone that is ill-informed for I know there are plenty of generous individuals and organizations out there. However, we are a selfish society by nature. We are self-serving and really do things for ourselves.

“²¹For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. ²²if I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. ²³I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. ²⁴But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. ²⁵Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and join in the faith, ²⁶so that in me you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of my coming to you again.” – Philippians 2:21-26 (ESV)

I believe that we, as a society want to be better at serving others first, but we are fighting the urges to serve ourselves. It is natural to want the best for ourselves, who does not want to be secure, safe, and profitable?

Paul gives us his view and as you read, you can feel how, in prison and considering his current position, he is torn between death (which provides instant gain by being with Christ) and life (which allows for more work to be done for others). It is not an easy decision and truly, how many of us have the decision to make.

Paul makes the decision to continue serving others as that is what he is called for by Christ. Will his decision generate more safety, security, and profit? Not likely. But, he is willing to do what is better for others based on his calling.

I get caught up in trying to figure out how I can do more to impact the lives of others for Christ. Am I doing my part? Am I doing enough? The answer as I read and study is, YES. I am doing my part. I am doing enough. I am and we are called to do the work God has established for us. The biggest part of that is to do for others for it is better.

When you look at your workings, are you working for others first? Are you serving yourself or others first? Are you thinking of better for others?