Prioritizing People Over Performance
It’s easy to focus on performance—the tasks, goals, and outcomes we chase in life. But joy isn’t found in achievement; it’s found in relationships. Like Paul’s care for the Philippians and Timothy’s concern for others, joy is rooted in genuine love for people. The way of Jesus isn’t about simply doing more—it’s about being with and caring for others.
Where have you been prioritizing performance over people?
How might you show genuine interest in someone else’s wellbeing this week?
“Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” — Philippians 2:4
Honoring the Humble
Paul holds up Epaphroditus as an example of the way of Jesus—one who risked his life to serve others. He calls him brother, coworker, fellow soldier, and tells the Philippians, “honor people like him.” The world celebrates the powerful and the loud, but God celebrates the humble. What we celebrate, we repeat. What we behold, we become like.
Who in your life reflects humble, faithful service to others?
How might you “hold them in honor” this week—through encouragement, gratitude, or imitation?
“Whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” — Matthew 23:12
Joy Rooted in Jesus and Each Other
Paul, Timothy, and Epaphroditus all show us that joy is not a solo pursuit—it’s found in shared love for Christ and one another. Paul rejoices in the Philippians’ joy. Epaphroditus’ healing brings joy to both Paul and the church. Our joy grows as we look not inward, but outward, and upward—to Jesus, who endured the cross “for the joy set before Him.”
Where are you looking for joy right now—in personal success, or in shared life with Christ and His people?
How could you strengthen joy in your relationships this week by serving or encouraging others?
“For the joy that was set before him, he endured the cross…” — Hebrews 12:2
Personal joy isn’t actually so personal—it’s communal.
Look to Jesus, and love others as He has loved you.