Unselfishness
South
Africans call it ubuntu, a Zulu word that means “humanness.”
In the philosophy of ubuntu, you are only a human being if
you are connected to and helping out other human beings. Jesus came
to earth where He lived as a human.
What is
the most Christ-like attitude on earth? Is it love, patience,
grace? How did Jesus describe Himself only one time in scripture?
In Matthew 11:28-30 we find that the outstanding characteristic is
unselfishness. Jesus thought of Himself last!
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give
you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle
and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My
yoke is easy and My burden is light.” NKJV
What
does it mean to be unselfish? It means to be submissive to others;
more concerned with serving others than meeting our own needs and
desires. We must be generous with our time, money, energy,
possessions, . . . Examples: husband to his wife and family,
mother to her children, athlete to his or her team, Christ to others
Not like
our world, is it? Today we are concerned with our rights, winning,
first place, looking after ourselves first, intimidating others,
meeting our needs. Few in today’s world seem to have this unselfish
attitude. Possible it is the hidden secret to a happy life.
I.
How do I become unselfish?
Philippians 2:1-4
One
becomes unselfish by encouraging, helping, sharing, being together.
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Never let
selfishness be your motive. Galatians 5:26
-
Always
regard others as more important than yourself. Ephesians
5:21
-
Be
concerned about how others are doing. Help if you can.
Romans 15:2 One’s aim should be to help and encourage others to
do their best (best for them) “highest good.” This is often
seen when difficult times come.
II.
Who is our greatest example of unselfishness?
Christ
is our greatest example of unselfishness! Philippians 2:5-8 There
was submission. He willingly said, “Yes” to leaving the glories of
heaven and coming to this world of sin. He left angels. He left
His Father. He left perfection to enter imperfection. Let us
look at the downward steps He took.
-
He emptied
Himself. (privileges, . . .)
-
He took the
form of a servant.
-
He was made
in the likeness of man. (pain, suffering, . . .)
-
He humbled
Himself by becoming obedient to death.
-
He accepted
the most painful form of death, crucifixion.
Did He
know all of this beforehand? Absolutely! What was His attitude?
Hebrews 12:2 “Joy” He wasn’t bitter, but just the opposite. He died
for us willingly and unselfishly.
III. And
what happened?
Philippians 2:9-11
Jesus
was exalted! He dwells in heaven.
Invitation:
Are you
looking for the secret to a happy life? Try an attitude of
unselfishness!
Bobby Stafford
August 7, 2011
What Must One Do to become a
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