Selfish ambition: a root of unhealthy relationships! (21/6/2023)
Philippians 2:3-4 "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."
Paul in this chapter dwelt on building healthy relationships using the example of Christ. One huge factor behind unhealthy relationships is selfish ambition, where the focus is on self and caring less about others. Selfishness results in greed, pride and lack of compassion. The world revolves around you and no one else. You want everything for yourself. You want to be happy even if others are crying.
In contrast, Paul notes that it takes humility to value others above oneself. And that results in thinking about their interests and wellbeing. This takes love. Jesus demonstrated this in His life. He left the glory in heaven to save us. Creator of all things came and lived a life of a servant and died like a criminal. He did all these for us. That was unprecedented humility, going all the way for others!
Selfish ambition is a major reason behind unhealthy competition, fights, slander, greed, oppression of others, disunity and divisions. It fuels all other evils. It makes one completely insensitive to the needs of others who need your support and help. And behind self centred lives, is the devil. We were created for each other. Life only becomes better if we do nothing out of selfish motives. God loves that.
Colossians 3:12 "Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience."
Shalom children of God