I use the English Standard Version of the Bible for my daily reading. Before that, I used the New American Standard Bible. They are closely related and most of the time their translations are just about the same. But occasionally they differ more dramatically.
Today, as I read Philippians, I came across one of those instances.
Philippians 2:3-4 from the ESV:
Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Other translations call us to consider others ‘better’ than ourselves and to look to others ‘good’ above our own. The ESV, on the other hand, calls us to consider others ‘more significant’ and to look to others ‘interestes’.
Now, I don’t know if this is the best way to translate this verse, but I love the sentiment which we know is good from reading the rest of scripture. Especially the concept of ‘interests’ rather than just ‘good’.
As Christians, it’s good for us to place ourselves in the shoes of our brothers and sisters in Christ. To take the things they enjoy and the things that are important to them and care about them ourselves as well. In any relationship, this is a way big that we show love to one another. By taking notice and care for other people’s interests and passions.
