Sometimes it’s beneficial to take a word and see what the Bible has to say about it. And since I’ve seen so much selfishness, I thought it would a good to see what God says about it.
We live in a “Me” world. In fact, the world preaches… If it feels good, do it. If you want it, then go for it. If it makes you happy, then reach for it. People will exalt their own desires, wants, and ambitions, while pushing others’ aside.
But here’s the thing… the Bible warns against such behavior. Let’s look at this…
Being selfish is…
Not God’s way!
Our key verse says: “Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others” (Philippians 2:3). Paul also writes in 1 Corinthians 10:24 that “No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.” Jesus put you and me before Himself. He put our salvation above His own comfort. If you want to walk in God’s ways, then we should be led by humility not selfishness.
Being selfish is…
A sign of the end days!
Paul writes to Timothy: “You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful” (2 Timothy 3:1-2). No doubt, selfishness is growing quickly and seeping into the church.
Being selfish is…
Earthly, unspiritual, and demonic!
James writes, “For jealousy and selfishness are not God’s kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic” (James 3:15).
Hence, selfishness and jealousy are not from God but are of the devil. Selfishness is an evil spirit that takes root and one that Satan fuels with lies. If selfishness is driving our behavior, then we are driven by our fleshly desires, not by God’s love.
Being selfish is…
A recipe for disaster!
Continuing in James 3, we read, “For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind” (James 3:16).
If we had a recipe for thriving relationships, selfishness would not be an ingredient. I’ve witnessed selfishness destroy all sorts of relationships and it will cause chaos in every area our lives. When we are led by selfishness, we are robbed of joy and peace. Selfishness will push people away, rather than draw them close.
With this said, we should always strive to be generous and loving. We should also strive to honor, value and build each other up. When these things are prevalent in our life, then there is NO room for selfishness.