Looking out for Number One

(photo credit: chess.com)

"Don't push your way to the front; don't sweet- talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don't be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand." (Philippians 2:3-4, The Message)

"Look out for Number One," is the consistent message of our culture. What does that look like? I'm glad you asked!

"I have to do what is best for me and my family," says the athlete turning down one multi-million dollar contract in favor of another one.

Leaders take a promotion based on the results of something that was the work of a whole team?

It is easier to write a check to our favorite charity than to invest the time necessary to engage with those in need.

We choose a church home based on the programs they have to offer that will benefit our lives.

I want to make a statement that seems crazy, but it is absolutely true: There is nothing wrong with looking out for Number One! In fact, I think the Bible teaches that we should.

Here's the twist: our problem is not LOOKING OUT FOR Number One; it is IDENTIFYING Number One.

According to this passage from Philippians, sometimes Number One is the person who is most in need at the time. Sometimes Number One is the person who needs a hand up (not a handout). Sometimes God wants to use us to give another Number One an opportunity to be empowered and equipped.

But in a larger sense, the Number One we should always be looking out for is the Number One of the universe. By "looking out" I mean, watching and paying attention to see where He is at work and what opportunities He will bring us to join Him in that work.

Question: What Number One are you looking out for today?