Ephesians 4:2 with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, (NKJV)
I’m always amazed at how exactly opposite the world’s ideas are with the Creator of the World’s ideas. The world would have us to believe that the road to success is paved with self interest – look out for number one; take care of yourself; if you don’t get yours, no one will give it to you. To borrow a phrase from Dr. Phil, “how’s the working out for you?”
Despite endless sources of teaching and advice that encourage you to focus on Self (professionally, spiritually, personally) the world is filled with dissatisfied, unhappy and lost people who can never quite get what it is they are searching for (happiness, fulfillment).
God has revealed to us that the road to happiness is exactly opposite of what the world declares. The Creator tells us to put Self well down our list of priorities, because in reality, we have no problem with loving Self and taking care of Self. Self doesn’t need to be elevated; Self is already on the throne of most lives, Christian or otherwise.
If Self-focus has left you empty, I would encourage you to give God’s way a try. Turn your focus on serving others today – in humility, patience and love. Put others before yourself. Get your mind off YOU for a while. I can guarantee you that you will find it refreshing and fulfilling.
Lord God, Help us to be “others focused” today. Help us to truly realize that the best way to improve our “self” in every way, is NOT to focus on “self” but on others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
James 1:22 – But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. (NKJV) - What is the most obvious Bible truth you have learned today?
- What change in your life needs to be made concerning this truth?
- What specific thing will you do today to begin that change?
