Jesus: The Cure for Selfishness

Selfishness creates division.

Selfishness comes from a spirit of pride.

Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.Galatians 5:26

A self-focused perspective looks out for what is best for me and assumes you are looking out for you.

Selfish ambition is incompatible with Christlike humility.

Christlike humility requires valuing others above ourselves.

But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.Matthew 23:11-12

True humility avoids self-centered motives and seeks the good of others.

For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.James 3:16

Following Jesus’ example means prioritizing others’ needs over our own.

Don’t worry about yourself, worry about others.

We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.Romans 15:1

Putting others first reflects the heart of the Gospel.

For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.Romans 5:6

Jesus’ incarnation exemplifies ultimate humility.

Though fully God, Christ took on human form as a bond slave.

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.John 1:14

His willingness to become human reveals His love and commitment to redeem us.

Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.Hebrews 2:14-15

Christ’s obedience to death on the cross is the ultimate cure for selfishness.

Jesus’ obedience demonstrates that true humility involves sacrifice.

Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;Hebrews 5:8-9

Jesus’ death on the cross shows that selflessness leads to eternal victory.

Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:Galatians 3:13

Adopt a servant mindset in daily life.

Practice sacrificial love.

Cultivate humility through prayer and a daily heart check.

Service is an indication of love. We serve who we love.