Philippians 2:5-7a– Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus who although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond servant (NASB).
“Buy something for yourself! Treat yourself! For every present I buy for others, I buy one for myself. Get a makeover!” Get what you want this year. Mail your size and color to us. We notify people who should be buying you a gift! Give your holiday chores to your family! Let your neighbor have that Christmas block party!” These are all “innocent” comments, quoted in magazines, on television, and on web pages. Apparently, the new way to spell Christmas is S.E.L.F.I.S.H!
I say “Bah, humbug!” What happened to the Biblical view of giving?
Philippians 2:3– Do nothing out of selfishness or vain conceit but in humility consider others better than yourselves (NIV).
2 Corinthians 9:7– Let each one do just as he has purposed in his heart; not reluctantly or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver (RSV).
Too late this year? The New Year stretches before us. Let’s live with Christ’s unselfish attitude. The alternative is not comforting.
Prayer: Father, show us our personal areas of greed and selfishness. This New Year, help us give you (through ourselves) to others. Amen.
Be First to Comment