Philippians 2:3 KJV
[3] Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
As always, the audience always defines the expectation. When you want to make a demand for something from someone, you have to be sure that the person has that which you desire, as well as the quality you desire. Paul, writing to the church in Philippi, was addressing people who were in Christ, whose hearts were being comforted by His love, who had close fellowship with the Holy Spirit, and has kindness and compassion for one another. That description of a church is relevant to our discussion here. People may claim that it is not possible to have such a church now, but the question is: WHY? Have we now become so focused on ourselves only that we do not care about other people's feelings? Are we all about what we can get, that we do not stop to think of the impact we can make in the lives of other people, when we allow the touch of God in us to also flow out and touch other people?
Some interesting synonyms for 'strife' found online are: conflict, antagonism, quarrel, struggle, clash, competition, disagreement, opposition, fight. The same goes for vainglory, which is also defined as: excessive pride in oneself or one's achievements, excessive vanity. I note the above points out both internal and external manifestations. As we know, everything that ever was physical once had a spiritual foundation. Before you see the physical manifestation of clashes and fights, you would have some uncomfortable experiences. It must also be noted that strife is also a human reality, and a manifestation of the old nature. Strife is mentioned as one of the manifestations of the works of the flesh, so as long as a man is under the control and influence of the sinful nature, strife will always be a part of the person's life. There is no way such a person can align with the demands of the spiritual nature.
It is not a wonder, then, that Paul warns about doing anything out of strife or vainglory. Both will pollute whatever it is you do, because the foundations of strife and vainglory are in the devil. Of course, we can disagree on issues and have different opinions on how things should be done, but at no time am I allowed to get into contentions and pride, thinking I have to be right at all times. I put myself in the shoes of other people; I see things from their own eyes too. In humility, I am able to relate with anyone, irrespective of station, status, standing, stature or social position. I consider others better than myself, because I do have a lot to learn from others. No one is ever given total knowledge of all things on the face of the earth. When the love of God guides our interactions with others, we make the message of Christ attractive to the people who are around us. What decisions do I need to make today? What of you? God's time of favour is here.
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