Romans 15:2-3(KJV)
Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification. For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me.
It is clear that some of the prevailing characteristics of people living in the last days would be selfishness, self-centeredness, and inconsideration for others. However, Apostle Paul admonishes us not to be motivated by selfish or personal ambition. He wants us to please our neighbor, for Christ did not please Himself, counting others more significant. That is, our thoughts and opinions of others should far exceed ours. In other words, rather than considering ourselves glorious and setting ourselves on a pedestal, we should see everyone else as glorious and worthy of higher consideration. Living to please ourselves and not the Master makes us overstretch the meaning of grace and begin to live reckless and lawless lives. By pleasing ourselves, we never give thought to how in the process, we have not only wounded a brother or sister, but we have hurt the Lord as well. While selfish ambition and pride can ruin unity, genuine humility can build it. It is easy to get caught up in competition, aggressive acquiring, and vying for our own rights and needs. But compared to knowing Christ, these interests seem shallow. As believers, we cannot only be absorbed in our selfish affairs, but we are to be interested in others. Philippians 2:3-5 says, “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:”
Focusing on others attracts focus from Heaven. When we are concerned about others, God takes care of our own desires. In other words, when we know how to put the interests of others first and to bless, doors cannot close against us. As Christians, we are responsible to our brethren in the Lord and to the world at large to be the salt of the earth and beacons of light in this world of darkness. Our light must shine so much that the reflection would brighten the paths of others in darkness and thereby bring glory to God. We are Christ’s channels of divine mercy and kindness, both within the Church and out in the world. It is far better to use the abilities God has given us to glorify Him and help others than it is to use them to puff ourselves up. Recognizing that our Father is so lovingly gracious with us, let’s show God’s grace to others with encouraging words and actions. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says, “Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.” We are great in God’s eyes when we speak words that uplift and encourage those around us. While we daily seek to follow God, create an atmosphere of encouragement for the brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ as they also seek to grow in their faith.
Beloved, God is calling you to love and care for one another. Trust God to give you the strength to die to yourself daily, pleasing one another. As you die to self, value others, for it is in your giving that your growth comes, for you cannot love without giving. Make life better for others today by loving and helping them. Be more interested in lifting people to greater heights in life instead of yourself. Never be the first through the door; your time is not more precious than anyone, and neither are your rights more paramount. The truth is that pure joy comes when the people around you are also happy. So, start planting one good seed after another, and eventually, you’ll enjoy a good harvest. Kindness isn’t so much what you do for yourself but for others. Have a determination to show someone kindness which only God can repay. As you start this new day, the love of God shall overshadow your life. Choose to speak positive words to your neighbor. Today, receive the GRACE to make a mark on somebody’s life in the Name of Jesus! Endeavor to correct, strengthen, and encourage each other in love along the way, making sure not to destroy anyone who falls into an error. Remember that whatever you’ve been casting out is always what you find down the road.
O Lord, deliver me from selfishness and a self-centered attitude. Help me put others first in Jesus’ Name.