Scripture: Philippians 2:1-4 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
Devotional: We all know at least one person who always has to make their opinion known. They announce it on social media. They share it when they see you. No matter what you do or where you go, you still somehow know where this person stands on every single issue (ever). And if you don’t know that person, this is where we make a joke that perhaps you are that person! *kidding*
It is plenty alright to have an opinion. In fact, God gave us Biblical truths that we can stand firm on. We can do so confidently and unwaveringly, while also still being gentle and filled with compassion. We need to ask ourselves: what is the motivation behind sharing my opinion? We do not want to share our opinion to bring attention to ourselves or to bring ourselves glory. Rather, we can share in order to bring God the glory.
We have the unique opportunity as followers of Christ to share our stance that is based on Biblical truth while also pointing people to the answer for all of our problems: Jesus. This isn’t about creating a no-win situation for people who disagree with you, claiming that Jesus belongs to the same political party as you. Rather, it is chance for us to share the Good News of the Gospel with those around us.
When we have the opportunity to share our opinion in a God-honoring way, bringing it all back around to Him, we can certainly do so. But as our Scripture for today reminds us, let’s not do it out of pride or our own self-interest. Rather, let’s try to value others above ourselves. We can be kind, respectful, gentle, and gracious with others, regardless of the topic at hand. We get to show how Jesus would respond and point people back to His truth and grace.
Reflect:
- Is there anyone in your life that you have witnessed share truth or speak boldly about something while still leading with love?
- How might you lead with love today?