INVIDIOUS!

INVIDIOUS!

Phil 2:3

3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

           The word invidious is an adjective and means: 1. Calculated to created ill will or resentment or give offense; hateful: invidious remarks. 2. Offensively or unfairly discriminating; injurious: invidious comparisons. 3. Causing or tending to cause animosity, resentment, or envy: an invidious honor.

           One of the meanings of the word strife is intrigue; a secret scheme. The meaning of verse 3 can only be understood by verses 4 through 8. The focus is not on grasping control or clamoring for the top spot. The mind of Christ is to sacrifice self for the promotion of others. Jesus knew he was equal to God the Father yet he subordinated himself in order to accomplish the Father’s purposes.

           Satan is full of intrigue and the success of his mission depends upon those who follow his craft. He counts on those who honor others only for personal gain; those who stir up strife. Whenever there is an evil and competitive spirit, Satan is behind it. It is divisive and destructive. We can see it everywhere.

           Satan often miscalculates the faithfulness of the faithful and that will be his downfall. He thought that Job’s reaction to pain and suffering would be to “curse God and die” but Job said in chapter 1 and verse 21: “Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.” Satan never anticipated this kind of response.

In the ancient fable a man carried two bags slung over his shoulders. In the one in front he carried his neighbour's faults: in the one behind, out of sight, he carried his own -- the exact reverse of the Christian way.

(from The Biblical Illustrator Copyright (c) 2002 AGES and Biblesoft, Inc.)

Dear Lord, let my thoughts be pure today and not full of intrigue. Let me have the mind of Christ. AMEN