At the moment I have all I need—and more! I am generously supplied with the gifts you sent me with Epaphroditus. They are a sweet-smelling sacrifice that is acceptable and pleasing to God. And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:18 –19)
What’s necessary if we hope to break the selfish syndrome and accelerate our growth toward maturity? Let me leave you three bones to chew on:
First, look within . . . and release. What is it down inside you that is stunting your growth? When you probe around and find something you are hanging onto too tightly, deliberately let go. Yes, you can. You just read it from Paul’s pen. You “can do all things through Christ.” Let Him help you pry your fingers loose. Inner joy begins when you have “no other gods before you.”
Second, look around . . . and respond. Don’t wait for someone else. Act on your own, spontaneously. The Philippians saw Paul in his need and they responded . . . again and again. Even though other churches did not follow their example, those folks from Philippi saw the need and responded. Is there some need you can help meet? Risk responding.
Third, look up . . . and rejoice. You are the recipient of His riches—enjoy them! Realize anew all He has done for you; then rejoice in the pleasure of getting involved with others. Among the happiest people are those who voluntarily serve others to the glory of God. Some of the saddest are people who have ceased all contact with those in need.
Laughter is definitely connected to staying involved with people. Stay involved! You will never regret it. Furthermore, it will help you grow up as you find yourself growing old. And the more involved you remain, the less concern you will have for how old you are.
An edited adaption from Charles R. Swindoll, Laugh Again: Experience Outrageous Joy (Thomas Nelson, 1995), 224–225.
