Focus on Yourself?

As I was driving to work today, a somewhat common thing happened.  Several others and I were getting close to an intersection where we would turn left.  Everyone was slowing down, but I noticed a vehicle coming up fast behind me.  The teenage driver whipped into the right lane and sped past me and another slowing vehicle before whipping back into the left lane.  He was going so fast that he had to slam on his brakes which caused the car in front of me to do the same, and I followed suit.  He may have had to get somewhere quickly, but (as we all know) most of those situations revolve around someone only thinking of themselves.  “It’s all about me!”

Why do we so often think of ourselves before others – often leading to hurt, anger, and possible danger?

Why do we not think of others more than ourselves?

Christians are called to be servants.  However, if you have ever been to a church potluck, it is interesting to notice how quickly people rush to the front of the line so that they can get the “best” food.

Jesus told us and showed us what it means to be a servant (as we are supposed to be).  Hours before Jesus gave His life on the cross for us, He did something that was shocking.  He is the Son of God and was considered a leader and rabi, but He chose to wash the nasty feet of His disciples.  That was a job suited for the lowliest of the lowly, but Jesus did it.  And then he said (in John 13:16-17), “Truly I tell you, a servant is not greater than his master, and a messenger is not greater than the one who sent him.  If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.”

Perhaps our failure to think of others is why so many of us are constantly irritated and critical.

On the other hand, if you have ever taken the time to visit someone in the hospital or nursing home, you know that you walk away more blessed than the one you visited.  If you help someone in need, you feel a sense of joy and pleasure.  Serving truly does the heart good.

God made it clear that we need to help others – by helping them know Jesus – by helping them grow in faith – by helping those who need help – by being a servant.  We know that doing those things does not just help the other person; it blesses us in amazing ways.

This week, ask God to help you see the opportunities you will have to serve like Jesus did.  Look for those opportunities.  Do something about the opportunities, and be amazed at what God will do in you.

When Dr. Jay Cook is asked to share a little of himself; his reply is, “Good question.  I ask it a lot.” His delight is sharing that he is a blessed man – married to a wonderful woman (Kristi Cook) – and awed by his two amazing kids (Jameson & Amelia Rose). He has served in ministry for over 30 years and loves to help others in any way he can. Jay is the Associational Missions Strategist for the Leake County Baptist Association, and a part of an amazing new church (3:16 church) in Canton, MS.  He also helps other churches (as he is able) through revivals, conferences, or however God leads.  He shares his thoughts of a man just trying to live for Jesus (and wanting to help others do the same) through his blog at Dr. Jay Cook.

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