The animal keepers of this zoo (Wilhelma Stuttgart) are seeking to provide some interesting and rewarding occupation for anthropoid apes.

“But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.” (Galatians 6:4/KJV).

Having spent some time in prayer for today’s post, I am going over my list of verses with the word “own”. Somehow I feel led to Galatians 6:4.

I like this verse. Yet I wonder if it really has something to do with the current theme of my posts: Love “seeketh not her own.” (1 Corinthians 13:5/KJV).

I am reading this verse in two other translations as well. I want to make sure I understand the verse correctly.

Does this verse give any enlightenment concerning self-seeking? I get inspired by the second phrase: “…and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone…”

What is the purpose of self-seeking? Often you are looking for something to make you happy.

Here Paul is giving some practical instruction how to gain some fulfilment and joy without indulging in selfish pursuit. He says, if you focus on doing your own job well, you will gain some satisfaction.

Evaluate your own work to make sure you meet the requirements. As you seek to do things well you will gain emotional stableness. You will have some rejoicing within yourself regardless of the reactions of others.

I like the following stanza and chorus of an old hymn:

“There’s a work for Jesus ready at your hand,
That the royal master just for you has planned.
Haste to do His bidding, yield Him service true;
There’s a work for Jesus none but you can do.”

“Work for Jesus, day by day, serve Him ever, falter never, Christ obey.
Yield Him service, loyal, true: There’s a work for Jesus none but you can do.”
(Golden Bells Hymnal)

To gain a more balanced understanding of “self-seeking” please feel free to check out my other posts in the subcategory : 1 Corinthians 13:5 – Self-seeking. Following my blog will help you not to miss any of my posts!