Self centered nature is not a virtue praised in Scripture. In fact, we are called to live lives of selflessness. Part of our walk as a follower of Christ is to take on more and more of his nature, which includes selfless living. There are many times in our life where we are very self centered.
Take an infant for example, they are concerned for their own needs above all others. Our first words are often words of selfishness “mine.” While most of us learn for moments in our lives to our grow that Self centered nature, it is always right below the surface.
There are few moments in our journey that bring our self centered nature to the front. One of those moments is when we are sick. When we become ill our self protection and preservation drive kicks in, and well it should. BUT not to the point of ignoring the needs of others around us.
3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4 Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
Philippians 2:3-5 (NIV)
But this call in Philippians is not a conditional call that says “consider the interests of others, if you are not sick.” Doctors gave Champaign, Illinois news anchor Dave Benton 4-6 months to live. Having fought brain cancer once, it has returned with a tumor that is too big for surgery and radiation. Benton used the opportunity to share his faith with his viewers in a video that has now gone viral.
[youtube id=”I_Wm2hS7MsM”]His response to this event in his life lives out the principle I have long held: “Live a Life that Demands and Explanation”
QUESTIONS: What causes you to lose sight of the needs of others? Let the conversation begin. CLICK HERE