Philippians 2:3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.
God has designed us to connect with other people. He blesses us and asks us to pour out that blessing on others.
A recently reported Harvard study on longevity shows relationships help us live longer and happier lives. It reports that close relationships, more than money, success or fame, are what keep people happy throughout their lives. Yet isolation rather than connection seems to be on the increase. No wonder our culture is experiencing less satisfaction and fulfillment and even shorter life spans. We are not living in God’s divine plan.
That’s why narcissism is so deadly. For narcissists, all their focus points to themselves. Others should serve them, admire them, cater to their needs. What an insult to God!
So maybe we need to take an honest look at what takes priority in our minds. Do we even know how not to think about ourselves? How not to look at our commitments through the grid of thinking first of how it benefits us?
A few weeks ago, I was walking downtown, headed for my favorite coffee shop to spend time writing. I like to get there early so I can find a table and work when my mind seems freshest. As I approached the town square, I saw a man on the side of the street with a sign asking for help. It was really cold outside, my heart went out to him. So, in spite of feeling a bit awkward, I decided to chuck my plan to get to the café early and find a place to buy this stranger a cup of coffee. Of course all the hindrances shot through my mind….cream or sugar? What if he doesn’t like coffee? Should I get hot chocolate instead? I managed to push all those potential hinderances aside and bought the coffee. He thanked me, and I went on my way.
I can’t say whether that small act of kindness on a cold day blessed the man. But I do know the Lord helped me get outside of myself for a few minutes and strike a blow to my self-centered tendencies. And anytime we can practice putting someone else ahead of ourselves is a good thing. A people-to-people good thing.