S – Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. ⁴ Everyone should look not to his own interests, but rather to the interests of others. 

 Philippians 2:3–4 CSB

O – Commentary:

Nothing was to be done out of selfish ambition (v. 3). The same word (eritheian) appears in 1:17 to describe the attitude of those who opposed Paul. Without question such behavior is of the flesh and not the Spirit (cf. Gal. 5:20, which uses the same word). Vain conceit, meaning “empty glory,” was probably the root cause of their selfish ambition.

The two negatives are followed by a positive exhortation: in humility consider others better than yourselves. But, a word of contrast, introduces these words. Humility before God and man is a virtue every child of God needs to strive for. A spirit of pride in human relations indicates a lack of humility before God. Paul exhorted the Philippians to consider others before themselves (cf. 1 Peter 5:5–6). “This will go far toward removing disharmony” (Homer A. Kent, Jr., “Philippians,” in The Expositor’s Bible Commentary, 11: 122).

Paul explained how humility can be expressed (Phil. 2:4). Instead of concentrating on self, each believer should be concerned for the interests of others in the household of faith (cf. Rom. 12:10). Preoccupation with oneself is sin.

 Robert P. Lightner, “Philippians,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 653–654.

A – This is a difficult challenge.  We are born into a nature that prioritizes ourselves.  Our basic instinct of protect and serve ourselves is true in food, clothing, shelter and basically, “What is best for me?”  This takes it a step further to elevate ourselves above God and/or others.  Humility recognizes our place with God and the value of others.  We can still take care of ourselves but we can also honor God and esteem others at the same time.

R – Heavenly Father, You are the One, True God.  Thank you for providing for our basic needs and for the relationship we have with you.  Empower us to elevate our thoughts and attitudes towards humility.  It isn’t thinking less of ourselves.  It is thinking more of You and others.