Lessons for Life with James Long, Jr.
Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join James, a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life's biggest questions and helps us find God's solutions to life's struggles. Learn the power of living by God's grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are on a search for freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show!
Lessons for Life with James Long, Jr.
Focus on Understanding Others (Philippians 2:3-4)
In this episode of Lessons for Life, we share practical steps for embracing this transformative attitude daily. Learn how simple actions like active listening and putting others first can create environments of support and encouragement, reflecting Christ's love in our interactions. As we walk this journey together, I invite you to explore more resources and support on jameslongjr.org. Let us strive for lasting transformation, finding peace, hope, and joy in Christ alone.
ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE
Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show!
Links
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Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast
Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast
In a world that often encourages self-promotion and rivalry, the call to humility and understanding can seem radical. How do we shift our focus from ourselves to those around us? Today, we delve into Paul's instructions to the Philippians, uncovering the power of understanding others as a vital aspect of our Christian walk. Well, hello, my name is James Long Jr. I'm a pastor, counselor and university professor. Welcome to Lessons for Life, where I help people whose pain from their past or their present is influencing their perspective on life, through teaching them about a person, the Lord Jesus Christ, principles and promises from God's Word and giving them a pathway for change. My goal is to guide you towards peace, hope and joy. In today's lesson, we will be exploring how God's truth can transform your life and how to experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Christ alone. Well, the passage of Scripture that we will be looking at today is found in Philippians, chapter 2, verses 3 through 4. It says this Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but, in humility, count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interest, but also to the interest of others. Here's the devotional thought. Philippians, chapter 2, verses 3 through 4, presents a clear command from Paul Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but, in humility, count others more significant than yourselves. This is a profound challenge to our human nature, which often prioritizes our own desires and interests above those of others. Paul warns us against the temptation of selfish ambition and conceit, urging us to cultivate humility instead. The Greek word for conceit translates as empty glory, pointing to the futility of pursuing personal recognition and status. In contrast, true humility invites us to genuinely consider the needs and interests of others, fostering a spirit of unity and love. This attitude of selflessness is not just a nice ideal. It reflects the life of Christ himself. Paul urges the Philippians to look to Christ as their example. In Philippians, chapter 2, verses 5 through11. Jesus, though fully God, willingly took on the role of a servant and humbly submitted to the point of death on the cross. This ultimate act of humility exemplifies the radical love we are called to show others. When we focus on understanding others, we open ourselves to a deeper connection and empathy. We learn to listen actively, appreciate different perspectives and create an environment of support and encouragement. As we prioritize others, we reflect love of Christ in our interactions. Building a community that honors God, bringing it home.
Speaker 1:Here are three ways you can focus on understanding others this week. 1. Practice active listening when engaging in conversations. Make conscious effort to listen more than you speak. Ask open-ended questions to encourage others to share their thoughts and feelings. Show genuine interest in their experiences. Number two put others first. Look for opportunities to serve those around you, whether it's offering to help a co-worker with a project or simply being there for a friend in need. Prioritize their interests and needs over your own.
Speaker 1:Number three take time to reflect on challenges and struggles that others may be facing. Put yourself in their shoes and consider how you would feel in their situation. This will help you to respond with compassion and understanding. Well, let us pray. Well, dear Lord, thank you for the example of humility shown through Christ. Help me to focus on understanding others and count them as more significant than myself. May my actions reflect your love and grace as I seek to serve those around me. Empower me to put aside selfish ambition and to pursue unity and understanding in my relationships. In Jesus' name, we pray Amen. Well, thank you for joining me today.
Speaker 1:If you found this lesson helpful, I encourage you to explore more resources and support on my website, jameslongjrorg. That's jameslongjrorg. There you'll also be able to join our Lessons for Life monthly membership or our online group coaching program, where you will find powerful coaching videos, a supportive community and step-by-step guidance for lasting transformation. Remember, true change is possible when you walk in God's grace and for His glory. Until next time, may you find peace, hope and joy in Christ alone. Blessings.
