THE FIRE OF HIS INSPIRATION Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves (Philippians 2:3). The more common interpretation of this verse is that we are not to over evaluate our own sense of importance to the point that we fail to consider or esteem others; that we should put others before ourselves. And I hold this view, although the exercise of this behavior is not as black and white as is frequently understood. Beyond this common understanding is another central point that remains unconsidered. The added dimension of this verse needs to be expanded to include one’s view of how those who esteem see others. The humility of mind needs to be aimed at all people, not just oneself. Those we esteem are to be seen with the same sense of humility of mind; that is, we are not to puff them up in our minds beyond reason or attribute vain glory to them, no matter their position. By doing so, we save ourselves and others from the temptation of false and reckless pride, as well as possible low esteem from those that diminish their own view of self in light of the importance of another. The support for this belief follows. In Isaiah 2:5-22 we find God’s chastising words to Judah and Jerusalem. It concerns not giving vain glory to one another, for it will all come to an end. In the last verse God tells us, “Stop regarding man, whose breath of life is in his nostrils; for why should he be esteemed?” Of course, God is not saying do not esteem others, but He is saying not to over esteem or value others beyond what is appropriate. Pride can lift anyone out of the realm of reality and health and make him or her a false God. In that case, what need would these have for the true God? The moral? God created humans and said it was good. But do not esteem any human in your mind or behavior beyond their humanity.
Posted on: Tue, 18 Jun 2013 15:58:04 +0000
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