Contagious Joy | Week Three
Selfishness suffocates joy; self-giving and unity multiply it. Jesus shows us how to use what we have for the sake of others.
Main Idea
As we keep our eyes on Jesus and depend on His Spirit, He grows His humility in us and teaches us to love and serve others.
Scripture Focus
Read Philippians 2:1–11 together. Notice how Paul moves from a call to care for one another, to the example of Jesus, to God’s exaltation of Him.
Additional passages: James 4:10; 1 Peter 5:6; Matthew 23:12; Hebrews 12:2.
Key Observations
- Joy grows in a united community. Paul calls believers to love one another, work together, and take an interest in others’ needs.
- Our way of thinking leads to our way of living. Time with Jesus, His Word, and His people shapes our mindset.
- Jesus used His position to serve. Though He was God, He humbled Himself and gave His life for others.
- Our role is humility; God’s role is elevation. We can trust His character and timing, even when faithfulness leads through suffering.
Group Discussion
- Read Philippians 2:1–4. Where do you see unity and care for others growing in your relationships? Where does self-interest make them harder?
- What is the difference between appearing humble and genuinely taking an interest in someone else’s needs?
- Read Philippians 2:5–8. What does Jesus’ example show you about how to use your influence, time, resources, or position?
- What has been shaping your mindset lately? What helps you turn your attention toward Jesus?
- Read Philippians 2:9–11. Why can it be difficult to trust God with the outcome when choosing humility costs you something?
- What could change in our community if churches treated one another as partners in God’s Kingdom?
Application
Think of one relationship in your family, church, workplace, or community. What would it look like this week to take a genuine interest in that person and use something you have for their good? Choose one specific action and share it with the group.
Prayer Focus
Thank Jesus for humbling Himself for our salvation. Ask Him to reveal where pride or self-interest has taken hold, to form His mindset in you, and to help you trust Him with the results of serving others. Pray for unity and love among the churches in our community.
Response Challenge
Begin each day this week with this prayer: “Jesus, help me see others as You do. Show me how to serve with what You’ve given me.” Then act on one opportunity to put someone else’s needs ahead of your own. When humility feels difficult, ask God for help—He can give you both the desire and the power to do what pleases Him (Philippians 2:13).