Focusing only on yourself is a sure way to lose your joy. We were made for community and find joy in living beyond ourselves to meet the needs of others. Instead, we’re tempted to work and strive to accomplish more and more. But Paul tells believers not to “do nothing out of selfish ambition” (Philippians 2:3) and not to place their confidence in the flesh (Philippians 3:3) or what they can do on their own. When we try to do everything on our own, we get frustrated and lose joy because: 1. We can’t. 2. We were made for community. 3. God’s strength is more significant than our strength. In 2 Corinthians 12:10 Paul says:
“For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:10 ESV)
When we are prideful and think we can do everything on our own, we forfeit God’s strength in our lives. I encourage you today to turn from any prideful ambitions and focus on glorifying God.
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for being the source of my strength in all areas of my life, and help me to lean on Your strength and not my prideful ambition. Please forgive me for times when I’ve tried to do everything on my own. Thank you for providing me with community and support to help me accomplish my God-given assignments. In Jesus’ name, amen
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