"Dying to Self" can be a confusing phrase, but it is critical to transforming our attitudes towards permanent Christian outreach...
I have to admit, I still think it is a strange phrase. However, I have come to appreciate its intent. Quite simply, the way I have learned to understand and apply this phrase is to think about continuously killing my selfish intent.
By our very human nature, we are driven for selfish ambitions. In fact, this is a big piece of “original sin”. Our human nature is to constantly seek to fulfill our own wishes and desires with little regard for our fellow man and woman.
The Christian attitude is radically different. In fact, Christians are reminded that not only is it the true nature of our righteous God to put others ahead of Himself, but it is His will that we take on a similar attitude towards our neighbor. In Mark 12:28-34, when religious leaders of the day asked Jesus what the greatest commandment was (out of 611), Jesus responds to love God with all your heart, mind, and soul and love your neighbor as yourself.
Practically speaking, however, how can we apply “dying to self”. Well, I will be the first to tell you that it is NOT easy! To continuously put others’ needs above our own has enormous consequences for our own agenda. It may mean helping get kids ready and off to school to help on the home front while simultaneously you get behind at work. It may mean choosing to stay at home to watch the kids instead of getting that workout in. It may mean not watching that movie you’ve been wanting to see forever that is finally coming on FX tonight because your kids are around. It may mean skipping trying to build your business tonight so you can cook dinner for the family instead.
These examples start to wade into another important territory for many Christians – many Christians are afraid of fully surrendering to His will because the consequences seem too great. Specifically, I don’t get to do anything that brings me personal joy anymore! In these moments, I want to remind you that the return on investment in others is well beyond your greatest expectations. I encourage you to exhibit and own the faith in His promises that following His will by serving others’ needs before yours, will truly lead to blessings for you in abundance… and much greater than you ever imagined!
Please let me know what you think about this important topic in the comments below. I’d love to hear from you! In the meantime, keep walking forward in your faith!
