…humanity’s habit of self-seeking.
God has given us free will, and I’m grateful for it, but with that gift comes responsibility yet so many use it recklessly. Some people strive to live in peace, doing their best to show kindness to others, but far too often, we see the opposite. Self-seeking behavior leads people to lie, manipulate, steal, and even betray those who trust them–all for their own gain. Sadly, this pursuit of personal fulfillment often comes at the expense of others.
Philippians 2:3-4 reminds us:
“Do nothing from 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.”
Imagine how different the world would be if everyone truly lived this out.
I’ve seen the effects of self-seeking behavior firsthand, and I’ve even been guilty of it myself on many occasions in my past. When I was a little girl, I stole a toy from a classmate. I still remember the way he looked when he realized it was gone. Even now, I feel terrible about it, because I know I really hurt him. I can’t even explain why I did it in the first place. I suppose I thought it would bring me happiness. Spoiler alert, it didn’t. Instead, it left me with a lasting regret.
“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” -Proverbs 14:12
As an adult, I now understand the weight of that moment. It wasn’t just about a toy; it was about the principle. That experience taught me something crucial:
What we betray others for, will never bring us the fulfillment we seek.
Hurting someone else for our own benefit will never lead to true happiness.
“Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.” -Proverbs 11:25
I wish more people could see that. I wish their hearts weren’t hardened by greed, pride, or pain. If I had one prayer for the world, it would be that God removes the scales from our eyes so we can see the truth: that life isn’t just about us as individuals or those in our personal lives.
“And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.” -Ezekiel 36:26
Caring about others, even those who aren’t connected to us personally, is one of the greatest things we can do.
“Let all that you do be done in love.” -1 Corinthians 16:14
Have you ever heard the saying: “kindness should be free?” Well, it’s true, and it’s much easier to fulfill than the effort it takes to show hate. Yet, it seems to be so rare nowadays. I find myself refreshed to see let alone experience it during my days out in the world. I pray we all learn to seek not just our own good, but the good of others. Because in the end, that’s what truly matters.
What do you think? What would you want to change in this world if you could will it (or ask God to change)?
Thanks for stopping by.
I pray many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many many blessings over you,
xoxoxoxox
Rosalyn Rose