“Everyone should look not to his own interests, but rather to the interests of others” (Phil 2:4). Instead of his own desires, he pursues their “progress and joy in the faith” so that their “boasting in Christ Jesus may abound.” Paul wanted to visit the church because it was best for them.

It’s Sunday morning. The alarm rings loudly while every instinct in you cries out to stay in bed. Saturday was a hard day, and it seems like the best thing you can do for yourself is to have a day of rest. After all, you can watch the sermon online later.

But you should get up and go to church.

Not just because it will be good for you, but because the church needs you.

I was recently struck by something Paul says in Philippians. Writing from prison, uncertain if he will live or die, he speaks with confidence that death will only bring him to be with Jesus, what he desires above all else (Phil 1:23). Death is gain for him. But his death would be a great loss for the Philippians. Therefore, he writes, “Since I am persuaded of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that, because of my coming to you again, your boasting in Christ Jesus may abound” (Phil 1:25-26).

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