The Cost of Selfishness

Selfishness blinds us to the reality of eternity and our accountability to God.

Worldly abundance creates a false sense of security and self-sufficiency.

Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:Revelation 3:17

Focusing solely on earthly possessions leads to spiritual poverty and neglect of things that really matter.

But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.1 Timothy 6:9-10

Self-centered planning reveals a foolish disregard for God’s sovereignty over life and death.

Prioritizing personal comfort and pleasure over godly purposes demonstrates spiritual shortsightedness.

Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)Philippians 3:17-19

Choosing to “one day” live for Jesus is not only selfishness, but foolishness.

Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death.Proverbs 11:4

Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.James 4:14

The pursuit of worldly wealth at the expense of spiritual riches leads to eternal loss.

Death exposes the ultimate worthlessness of a life lived for self.

For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?Mark 8:36

True and lasting riches are found only in a right relationship with God and service to Him.

But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:Matthew 6:20

God calls us to faithful stewardship of everything He has given us.

Recognizing that God ultimately owns all things is fundamental to biblical stewardship.

A Psalm of David. The earth is the LORD’s, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.Psalm 24:1

We will be held accountable for how we manage God’s resources.

Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.1 Corinthians 4:2

Regularly examine your priorities to ensure they align with God’s eternal purposes.

Practice consistent generosity as a means of loosening your grip on material possessions.

Invest time, talents, and resources in eternal matters that advance God’s kingdom.

Train yourself to be content in the Lord.