Trying to be selfless in a world full of selfishness is never going to be an easy task, and if anyone tells you that it is easy, they are deluding themselves.
Almighty God, told us in the book of Philippians 2:3 Let nothing be, done through strife or vainglory, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. So how do we follow the instructions in Philippians 2:3 and do nothing out of selfishness or vanity and conceit.
As Christians, we need to learn to overlook and forgive an offence.
When someone negatively talks about you or misunderstands who you are, the Scripture says in Proverbs 19:11The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.
If we make everything about ourselves, we think we have to defend ourselves, set others straight on their misconceptions about us, and try to convince others that they are so wrong about us. But, as children of our heavenly Father, God’s got our backs. His name is our name, and He protects His own. To overlook an offence is to show meekness and humility to say I am not as important as I think I am, so I’ll let God take care of my reputation.
We should aim at all times, compliment instead of criticising.
If you have a critical spirit that notices what’s wrong with others and wants to make sure they know it, too? Or worse, do you ever cut someone down to make yourself feel a little bit taller? All of that behaviour is aimed, at making oneself look better than someone else.
But, if you focus on how you can build up others and give them words that encourage and empower them, you are applying Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is useful to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
Lets put others first because Jesus taught many who are first would be last, and many who are last will be first. We are, told in Matthew But many that are first shall be final, and the last shall be first, which is contrary to society’s culture of seeking the first place in line, the best place at the table. We are, instructed in Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what that good is, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
A renewed Christian mind will always put others first just like Jesus did. Philippians 2:3-4 instructs us to humbly value others above ourselves by not looking to your interests, but each of you to the interests of the others.
We need to be okay with not being noticed. You must be okay with not being recognised, applauded, or even appreciated? This attitude is rare today, especially when you are among people who feel entitled, demand respect, and are, used to getting awards and applause for merely doing what is, expected.
However, Jesus encouraged obscurity when He taught us that when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is, done in secret, will reward you.
We should never be too impressed with ourselves, boast about your generosity, or look for paybacks for your kindness. Don’t do anything to draw attention to yourself and the good deeds that you did for others.
Mighty God, help me to be selfless in a world that is full of selfishness. Teach me humility, humbleness, kindness, generosity and tolerance for my fellow man in the precious name of Jesus.
