Curb Selfishness by “Practicing the Presence” of God

Are you selfish? 

When others choose the best for themselves, we’re quick to label them as selfish. It’s harder to catch that same behavior in ourselves. Satan tempts us with the desire to have the best the world can offer. Marketers know how to exploit this desire, especially during the holidays! “You deserve the best!” “You only live once!” They scream at us and create discontentment with what we already have or with what we can give. Selfishness isn’t tied to a certain amount of money. It’s a condition of our heart. In Philippians 2:3-4, the Apostle Paul advised: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to our own interests but each of you to the interests of others.”

Surrendering our desire to always have the best, allows us to put others’ needs above our wants. We must know where we’re vulnerable and protect ourselves. It helps to be accountable to others. Most important, though, is nurturing our devotion to the Lord. Understanding His love and confidently standing on His promises satisfies our deepest longings. When you “practice the presence” of God by reading His word, praying, and listening to Him throughout the day, you’ll reap contentment and joy. You’ll be more grateful and less stressed financially when you’re not preoccupied with your own desires. You’ll find financial margin to give more joyfully. Then, you’ll know the rich blessings God promises when generosity becomes a part of your life. Plus, when you are unselfish you’ll have a whole lot less stress.

Now if selfishness has caused credit card debt in your life, Christian Credit Counselors can really help. They can create a debt management plan that will work for you. For more information visit online at crown.org/ccc.