For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing is there.     James 3:16 NKJV

The Bible has a lot to say about selfishness. When we seek to serve ourselves and want others to do the same, we are being selfish. Here James points out that where selfishness exist, confusion and every evil thing exists also.

In the case of mental illness we often encounter those who consider only the needs of themselves and are perfectly willing to sacrifice someone else’s happiness in their desire to be content. Sadly, no matter what others around them do, however, they can’t find contentment.

Their selfishness has brought them into a world of confusion. We are told in 2 Timothy 3:2-4 that in the end times people will be lovers of self and they will be proud, arrogant, and abusive.

The Bible clearly speaks against selfishness in numerous verses. 1 Corinthians 10:24 says to let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor.

Philippians 2:3-4 says that you should do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

1 Corinthians 13 is often referred to as the love chapter. In 1 Corinthians 13:4-6 we are told that love is patient, kind, does not envy or boast, is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth.

As we draw nearer to the rapture, we will see more and more selfishness. Again 2 Timothy 3:1-6 talks about this in detail. It speaks of how people will be in these end times.

So, the question is how do we deal with it? Well, you can’t control someone else’s behavior, you can only control your own. Be sure that you are putting the needs of others above your own. Put God first, others second and yourself last.

Galatians 5:26 tells us not to become conceited, provoking one another and envying one another. Hebrews 13:16 tells us not to neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. And 2 Timothy 2:4 reminds us that we are soldiers in the Lord’s army and no soldier becomes entangled in civilian affairs because he seeks to please the one who enlisted him, which in our case is the Lord.

In order to provide from becoming selfish or self-centered. Focus on others and find ways to serve the Lord by helping others. There are plenty of churches that have outreach ministries that could use your help. There are non-profit organizations that help other people that are always looking for volunteers. And of course, you could start your own ministry helping others. God has given all of us gifts to serve Him and help those in need. Put yours to good use.

We become selfish when we get caught up in focusing on what we want and what we need. We are to focus on God and trust in Him to provide all we need (Matthew 6:33). Even churches can become self-centered catering only to the needs of their members. This can cause them to be inwardly focused, and this is never good.

Love the Lord with all your heart and love your neighbors as you love yourself (Matthew 22:37-39), this will put Jesus first, others second, and you last. This will help us to guard against being self-centered and help us to be Christ-centered.

Have a great day!