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Read James 1:2–4

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. (James 1:2–4)

Read Philippians 3:7–9, 12

I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done. Yes, everything is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ and become one with him. I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith. (Philippians 3:7–9)

Read Philippians 3:1

Whatever happens, my dear brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord. I never get tired of telling you these things, and I do it to safeguard your faith. (Philippians 3:1)

All this leads me to a terribly important subject I have been wanting to address. I’m unable to restrain myself any longer...and I especially have in mind those of you who can’t stand coming in second because you face a great temptation.

Read Philippians 3:4

Indeed, if others have reason for confidence in their own efforts, I have even more! (Philippians 3:4)

The problem is that human achievement results in earthly rewards, which fuels the fire for more achievement leading to greater rewards. “Problem...what problem?” you may ask. This: None of that results in deep-down satisfaction, an inner peace, a soul-level contentment, or lasting joy. In the process of achieving more and earning more, few if any learn to laugh more. This is especially true if you are the classic Type A. Hear me out.

Read Philippians 2:25–26, 29–30

Meanwhile, I thought I should send Epaphroditus back to you. He is a true brother, co-worker, and fellow soldier. And he was your messenger to help me in my need. I am sending him because he has been longing to see you....Welcome him in the Lord’s love and with great joy, and give him the honor that people like him deserve. For he risked his life for the work of Christ, and he was at the point of death while doing for me what you couldn't do from far away. (Philippians 2:25–26, 29–30)

Read Philippians 2:21

All the others care only for themselves and not for what matters to Jesus Christ. (Philippians 2:21)

Since none of us is a whole, independent, self-sufficient, super-capable, all-powerful hotshot, let’s quit acting like we are. Life’s lonely enough without our playing that silly role.

The game’s over. Let’s link up!

Read Philippians 4:1

Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stay true to the Lord. I love you and long to see you, dear friends, for you are my joy and the crown I receive for my work. (Philippians 4:1)

Old habits are terribly hard to break. As soon as you attempt to bring some necessary balance into your life, you are going to have a fight on your hands. After all, self has had its way for years. Giving you the freedom to laugh again and bring some needed joy into your life is not on self’s agenda.

Read Philippians 2:15–16; Matthew 5:16

Prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, holding firmly the word of life, so that on the day of Christ I can take pride because I did not run in vain nor labor in vain… (Philippians 2:15–16 NASB)

Read Philippians 2:3–4

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. (Philippians 2:3–4 NASB)

As I consider Paul’s counsel, three practical ideas emerge that may help us cultivate an unselfish attitude.

First, never let selfishness or conceit be your motive. That’s right, never. That is Paul’s advice, isn’t it? “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit” (emphasis mine).

Read Philippians 2:1–2; Matthew 11:28–30

Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. (Philippians 2:1–2)