Deference and Preference

“Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. . . . Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.”

(Philippians 2:1-2, 4 NKJV https://www.bible.com/bible/114/php.2.1-2,4.nkjv)

Herein is the key to harmony in a church or any organization. It’s a given fact that each of will, to some degree, look out for their own interests; but when each looks out for the others’ interests, as well, harmony and smooth sailing will result.

Paul continues in the following verses, telling us to be like Jesus in our mindset. Paul spells out what He did on our behalf. What He left behind is sometimes overlooked; John tells us, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” For us, He left His throne in glory; can we not defer to others?