No one likes to be looked upon as being self-centered. But let’s be honest – each of us has a strong tendency in this direction. Our biggest problem is that we usually fall to see this fault in ourselves, even though everyone else can see it.
The following story illustrates the point. A young actor was on his first date with a lovely girl he wanted to impress. All through the dinner he talked about himself. He told her about his career, bragged about the favorable comments he had received from several big-name people, and spoke glowingly about his prospects for lead roles. When the dessert came, he finally said, “Ah, my dear. Enough about me. Now let’s talk about you. What did you think about me in my last role?” understandably, the young woman dropped him like a hot potato.
A person all wrapped up in himself makes a very small package. But worse than that, self-centeredness is decidedly un-Christian. It stops us for showing love for others, and it runs contrary to the example set by our Lord Jesus. He left heaven to live in poverty, to endure rejection, and to die like a criminal on a Roman cross. That’s why when the apostle Paul taught us to look after the needs of others, he pointed to Jesus as our model.
When we reflect on His examples, we can’t help but see that Christianity and self-centeredness don’t mix. Let’s check up on ourselves. Whom do we resemble the most – that young actor or the Lord Jesus? – Herbert Vander Lugt
There is a power of selfishness,
The proud and willful,
And ere my Lord can reign in me,
That proud old self must die. – Anon.
You cannot be your brother’s keeper if you are caged in by selfishness.
- April 6, 1985, Our Daily Bread
For You 