Year of the Bible: Part Ten of TwelveSample

Giving God Joy

Scriptures that say “fulfill my joy” should get our attention—certain things really do get the Holy Spirit’s attention and cause Him great joy! Yes, Paul wrote those words, but he did by the Spirit’s inspiration.

So, what gives God joy? Things like love, unity, and the absence of selfishness or pride. Selfishness is the opposite of love. As you will see, there is an essential connection between love and humility. This passage urges us to “consider others better than ourselves.”

Wait a minute—nobody is better than anyone else, right? Of course, no one person is better than any other, but that’s not what this passage is saying. Rather, God is saying, “Treat others as if they are better than you. Put them first.” This kind of unselfish love is modeled best by Jesus; He considered you and me as more important than Himself—so much so that He came from heaven and took the place of a servant, laying down His life on the cross for us. That kind of unselfish “others first” love gives God joy.

Question: Is there anybody you have honestly thought yourself “better than”? What unselfish act would bless them and break that attitude’s hold on you?

Prayer: Father, forgive me of my pride, self-focused thought patterns, and divisive words or actions that undermine unity in Your Kingdom. I acknowledge Jesus’s authority and allow His others-first love to rule my heart. Thank You for the grace to do it.