Monday, September 29, 2025

New Testament Reading Plan: 2 Corinthians 5

Yesterday, Andy unpacked a TRUCKLOAD on how not to get screwed in our relationships. And - if I am being honest - it wasn’t quite what I expected. 

I don’t know about you, but I too often find myself trying to win, get my way, and get my share of the glory. And what does this lead to? Contentious one-sided relationships, anxiety, and mistrust. I feel like the other person is not pulling their weight. 

But what if I’m the one not pulling my share of the weight?

In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he explains that the foundation of healthy relationships begins with being like-minded and agreeing wholeheartedly with the other person (Philippians 2:2). Wait! What? Okay, not on everything but on the ultimate purpose of our relationship(s) and eventually becoming one in spirit.

This can be tricky to accomplish. Turns out, when it comes to improving our relationships, we don’t have to try to change our spouse, our friends, or our co-workers. In fact - what power do we really have to do such things? Fortunately, Jesus showed us the way to find unity in one word “humility.” When we loosen our grip on ourselves, our desires, and our own interests, we can begin to put the other person’s needs first (Philippians 2:4).

When Jesus roamed the earth, he demonstrated humility on a whole new level (Philippians 2:5-7). He lived the life of a servant and then made the ultimate sacrifice. When we put other’s interests ahead of our own, we link ourselves with Christ.

So, what’s the payoff if we serve, sacrifice, and put others first, like Jesus did? In today’s thinking, it can sound like a very weak position! However, God exalted Jesus, and now, his name is forever above all.

No one said living a Christ-centered life would be easy. However, when we let go of our superficial need to just “look the role” of a Christian, new doors will open. Humility requires strength of character that can only come from the healing power of Jesus. But when we serve and sacrifice in our relationships, they will be marked by unity, joy, and strength.

Humility, folks, is a power position!

Questions:
When do you enjoy your relationships most/least?

How often does it feel like your relationships are a competition?

Next Steps: 
Set aside time with your spouse, a friend, or co-worker to define the nature of your relationship and what you want to accomplish together.

Think of a small act of service or sacrifice you could provide and see how it plays out in your relationship.

Prayer: 
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for creating each of us with unique gifts, desires, and interests, yet with a spirit that craves to serve and sacrifice. Give us eyes to see the power of humility and a softened heart in our relationships. Let our service and sacrifice bring about the endless possibilities we desire in our relationships. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Series Theme Verse:
Romans 12:17-18
Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.

This post was written by Nick Thomas, a Findlay attendee, and a regular contributor to the Daily LivingItOut.