Looking Out

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Philippians 2:4 (NKJV) "Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others."

What It Is Speaking to Me

Have you ever helped a parent with a project involving tools?

I would help my dad with house projects: plumbing, electrical, roofing, and more. Before you think I helped out of the goodness of my heart...I didn't. I was drafted. But I am grateful for the draft now, because I learned a lot in the process. One of the things I learned was that a good helper is someone who watches closely the person they are helping and anticipates what they need next. With plumbing, I eventually figured out the order I needed to hand my dad the right tools so he didn't have to ask every time.

If you have ever benefited from a good helper, you know how awesome it can be. Someone who anticipates your needs before you have to say anything, maybe even before you have thought of the need yourself. That is a good helper.

The Greek word for "look out" carries the idea of a real, thorough look. It is intentional, sustained, and focused. There is no "glancing" or "passing look" in this word. In fact, the word for overseer or elder in the Bible is built from this same word which actually makes sense. An overseer is someone who is attentive, carefully watching over the people God has given them.

So what is Paul saying? He is saying: look hard, thoroughly, and with great focus at the interests of others, the same way you naturally do at your own. Looking after our own interests is built into our nature. The interests of others? Not so much.

It is so easy to get wrapped up in our own things, our own busyness so much so that we never take a long, intentional look at the people in our lives. What needs do they have? How can I anticipate what they need and meet that need before they have to ask?

I don't mean only financial or physical needs, though those are important too. I mean any need. Perhaps you know someone has a big meeting coming up, a work deadline, a school test, or a rough family situation they are dealing with. Calling them, encouraging them, praying with them, or even bringing them a treat or a hug can meet a need they didn't even know they had.

If you keep your eyes open, intentionally looking, God will show you how to love like He loves, and meet the needs He puts in front of you.

Are you looking out?

What Is It Saying to You?

Think of a time someone looked out for you. What did it do for you? What did it do for that relationship?

How do you remind yourself to look out for others?

How do you keep from getting caught up in your own interests?

What Are We Going to Do About It?

Identify one person you can proactively do a helpful task for — before they even have to ask.