News Flash: Life is not about you.
James 4:6 “But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.’”
James 4:10 “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”
A big difference between Christians and the rest of the world is an emphasis on humility. According to the world we are supposed to boast in our achievements. We are supposed to be prideful, bang our chests, and say, “I’m Mr. Meeseeks! Look at me!” (That’s a Rick and Morty joke if you don’t get the reference) The world wants you to think, “It is all about me.”
This leaves you in a mindset of only thinking about how others can help you personally. You only do things for others when you know they can help you. You only do acts of charity because they benefit you in the end. You are constantly looking for how others will fill you up. I struggle with this like anyone else.
As Christians, we are called to separate ourselves from this prideful environment. To quote the prophet Kendrick Lamar, “Be humble. Sit down.” Put others above yourself. Think about the needs of those around you before you think about your desires. Do things for other people because you care about them, not because they will do something for you in return. Look for how you can fill others up.
You are not the center of the universe. People are not here to meet your every need. You are only one of over 7 billion people whom God put on the earth. Sit down from the throne that you put yourself on.
The Christmas sermon I heard back home gave an acronym to remember how we should orient our lives:
JOY: Jesus, Others, Yourself. Put Jesus first, then others, then yourself. If you leave out one part or put them in the wrong order you won’t have JOY. You may end up with YO or YOJ.
“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”
This week, I challenge you to do something for someone who can’t repay you.
Be Humble. Sit Down.
I appreciate you.
-JP