Devotions based on Kenneth Boa’s book, Conformed to His Image
As we grow in our awareness of our freedom in Christ, more and more we are able to put others first. “Do nothing out of 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.” (Phil. 2:3-4) It’s not easy to have other-centered concern for people who may reject us or cause us pain. But it need not destroy us since we look to God alone for our true identity and worth. “When we are secure in Christ, the rewards of investing our lives in people exceed the pains that people can cause.” As Christ increases in our lives and we decrease, we will find more joy in serving others than pursuing possessions, power, performance, or prestige. The world system switches the price tags and encourages us to pursue things that will not last. If we value the world first, we will miss out on the joys of knowing Him and quality relationships with others. Our vertical relationship with the Lord is the key to our horizontal relationships with others. We bring nothing into this world and we can take nothing material out of it. But if we allow Him to accomplish His work in and through us, the results last forever!
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