A Proper Perspective

A Proper Perspective

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit,
but with humility of mind regard one
another as more important than yourselves.

Philippians 2:3 NASB

At first glance the standard in that verse seems impossible to meet. Nothing? We shouldn’t do anything for ourselves? No new dress or suit. What about going to school or saving money—couldn’t all of these things be considered selfish?

They could, unless we are careful to understand what Paul is saying. The word the apostle uses for selfishness shares a root form with the words strife and contentious. It suggests a self-preoccupation that hurts others. A divisive arrogance. In fact, first-century writers used the word to describe a politician who procured office by illegal manipulation or a harlot who seduced the client, demeaning both herself and him. . . .

Looking after your personal interests is proper life management. Doing so to the exclusion of the rest of the world is selfishness.

A Love Worth Giving