Philippians 2:4

"Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too."

Paul tells us in Philippians Chapter 2 to take an interest in others. This is a radical idea in our culture because our technology encourages us to select hobbies and topics that fascinate us, and it allows us to ignore other areas that we don't care much about. What often results is that we have little time for people who have different interests from our own.

Taking an interest in others doesn't mean that we have to take up a new hobby that we don't enjoy. But it does mean that we should try to be a good listener when others tell us about their interests. So for today's devotional exercise, ask a friend or family member to tell you about one of their hobbies. The more uninteresting it is to you, the better.

Be a good listener while they share with you their passion. Learn why they like it, when they started getting involved with this activity, and what their hopes are in this area for the future. Don't allow yourself to take over the conversation or to compare your interests with theirs. The goal is not so much to learn about their hobby area, as it is to show love and care for another person.

(New Living Translation; photo credit: Wix media)