“Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus,
“To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons:
“Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. It is right for me to feel this way about you all, because I hold you in my heart, for you are all partakers with me of grace… I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:1-11
Paul’s letter to the Philippians begins with greeting all the saints and leaders of the church, and is replete with grace, affection, and encouragement in prayer. His concern and love for them is evident and powerful. As a servant of Christ, he serves His people with divine substance.
In our relationships with saints in the church, it’s important to remember we are first servants of Christ. Others do not exist for my good – I exist for theirs, and the glory of God. If Christ came not to be served but to serve, I am to exemplify His selflessness and lavish generosity with those around me. Key indicators of my attitude are the thoughts that fill my mind, what holds my affections, and whether and how I pray. (Matthew 20:28; Colossians 3:23-24)
How do I interact with God’s saints? Do I finagle position and compete, vying for attention, notice, advantage, or the last word? Is my attitude that of a superior expert, or a humble servant? When I extend grace as a fellow partaker, the Lord orders my mindset aright, and the Spirit inspires ways to build them up in their role as partners in the gospel. (Philippians 2:13)
Practically, how and to whom can I offer Christ’s gifts? Who is weak who needs encouragement, has erred who needs reminding of God’s grace, is in turmoil who needs peace? Whom has the Lord brought to remembrance who would be blessed by my attention, help, and prayer support? Whom am I upbuilding with God’s sure promises? For whom am I yearning and interceding for spiritual growth?
If I’m forever thinking of and doing for myself, tending to personal interests alone, I need a mighty work of cleansing and reordering. An honest assessment of who’s on my throne and what drives my activities will reveal my heart priorities. Humbled, earnest confession will open the door to taking a place as Christ’s servant and looking for ways to serve His church. (Philippians 2:1-8)
Lord, may I faithfully serve Your saints with the love, generosity, and care with which You treat me, to their good and Your glory.
