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Who Really Is First?

Philippians 2:21 “For all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus.”

As you read Philippians 2:21, you must know it is definitely not a life verse for a believer. It is not what a Christian is to be about.  Matter of fact, it is the exact opposite of what a Christian is to be.  It speaks of self-centeredness.  It speaks of selfishness.  

As we look at the verse, we are not sure who the “All” are, but whoever they are, they have the wrong purpose in life. Instead of a Joshua mindset of “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15) these folks have a “for me I will serve myself.” Instead of seeking first the kingdom of God, as Jesus said in Matthew 6:33, they are seeking their kingdom first.  Instead of a mindset of looking out for the interests of others (Phil. 2:4), they think only of themselves.  

For the self-centered, it is a “myself,” – “mine,” – “own,” – “me,” – “my,” and “I” focus of life.  

In comparison to this mindset, Paul tells the Philippians that Timothy will genuinely be concerned for their welfare. (Philippians 2:20) Timothy has embraced the others go first mindset.  Timothy has embraced having the mind of Christ.  (Philippians 2:5)

As you look into the mirror of the Word I trust Philippians 2:21 is not a statement that would be made about you.   We are challenged in the world we live in to always put ourselves first. This is a mindset to be rejected.  Living like Jesus means others come before us.  We are not selfish and self-centered.  We are selfless and others-centered. 

By the way, the Apostle Paul had written of himself in Philippians 1:21 that for him to live was Christ.  So I place a challenge to you by asking if you are a Philippians 1:21 person or a Philippians 2:21 person.  Are you living for the Savior or living for self? 

Philippians 1:21  For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
or
Philippians 2:21 “For all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus.” 

Which are you? Philippians 1:21 or Philippians 2:21

Continue Strong seeking first the kingdom of God and the betterment of others!
And remember to DATE The Word

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