Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. 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. Philippians 2:1-4 NIV
From what we see–surrounding us–within churches, families, and especially politicians, the only interest some people have is what will make them “somebody” in the eyes of others. When the interest is self-centered, and not Christ-centered, then we recognize, by their actions, who is and who is not–united with Christ.
Being Christ-centered does not mean we don’t make mistakes, but we recognize our mistakes and missteps, apologize and correct, seeking forgiveness where needed and repenting of the behavior. Those who are self-centered–never recognize themselves from one moment to another when they make missteps and certainly won’t apologize to anyone, because in their eyes, they are always right.
Christ-centered people understand how we are to treat others and we know how to put our ambitions aside for the sake of helping others accomplish their goals. That does not mean we shouldn’t have goals, but when we see others–in Christ–struggle to achieve and we can help–we should.
Self-centered people are only interested in what they can accomplish and will walk on and over people to reach their goals, never caring about who they hurt and certainly never caring enough to help another.
Considering the time in which we live–there is a great need for those of us who know Jesus to step up and assist others in need. That assistance can be material, as well as spiritual–offering support to those who have taken a stand for righteousness–and are not caving to political correctness. We can make our support known through social media, open letters to media outlets, and by praying for wisdom and endurance to maintain stances against evil.
It is the responsibility of every Believer to defend the rights of the poor and needy, not the rich and greedy. What are we waiting for? Let’s take care of those who are united in Christ!
maryhallrayford 