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Over the course of 10 verses in the second chapter of the Book of Philippians, Paul uses the personal pronoun “I” eleven times! (see Philippians 2:19-28). This is an important autobiographical part of Paul’s letter, but it also shows us the intimacy of this godly man’s relationship with both Jesus and with the saints at Philippi.
We also see that becoming a Christian doesn’t mean our unique personality gets toned down to be like every other Christian’s personality. In actuality, I become more me when I am in Jesus and when I am allowing the Holy Spirit to actively work in my life. At the moment of conception, the breath of God created a unique combination that makes me me. Then through the process of sanctification, my me becomes more of the me God created.
Look at these “I” statements in Philippians 2:
- Paul has plans—I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon … I hope to send him to you as soon as I see how things go with me (vv. 19, 23)
- Paul has aspirations—I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon (v. 24)
- Paul has a mind—I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus (v. 25)
- Paul has emotions—I am all the more eager (v. 28)
Intermingled with Paul’s personal pronouns are six explicit references to his Savior and God. All Paul’s aspirations, plans, friendships, and work were channeled through his intense desire for both himself and these saints to stand together around the throne of God (2:16-18; 1: 3-8).
So it should be for us too. I am most me when I am allowing the Holy Spirit to direct my plans, thoughts, emotions, words, and actions in a way that exalts Jesus.
My unique personality shines brightest and I feel the most alive when I am abiding in Jesus and submitting to the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit
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Craig T. Owens 