Devotion
Put Down the Scorecard
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit.”
Philippians 2:3
Read Philippians 2:3 slowly. Notice the two motives Paul names: selfish ambition and conceit. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you where either one has been hiding beneath your words or choices.
Selfish ambition turns relationships into competition. It asks, “How can this person, meeting, ministry, or opportunity help me get what I want?” Conceit is empty glory, the need to appear important even when there is nothing solid beneath the appearance.
Practice
Where have you been competing for credit, attention, or control? Encourage one person today about something genuinely good you see in them. Do not mention your own contribution or wait for the compliment to return. Let their good be worth celebrating.
Prayer
Jesus, I confess how quickly I begin keeping score. Free me from the need to be noticed and help me value the people around me. Teach me to find my security in your love.
This Week’s Message
This devotion follows along with this week’s message.