Life is all about relationships.  In fact, simply being created in God’s image means that we were created for the potential to have great and meaningful relationships.  This begs the question of why do we then has such unfulfilling and unsatisfying relationships with others?  Why do we have such a relational vacuum in our world today?

The reason for this relational tragedy is the sin of selfishness.  Paul instructed the Philippians to tap into the joy of relationships.  He gave them this tip for building meaningful relationships:  “Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves.  Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too” (Philippians 2:3-4, NLT).

So if we want meaningful relationships with others, we have to put selfish interests aside.  We have to be willing to put the needs and wants of others ahead of our own.  When we pursue personal happiness for happiness’ sake, we end up miserable.  On the other hand, when we pursue the wellbeing of others, we end up relationally satisfied.

Prayer- “Lord, help me to throw away selfishness so that I may embrace the meaningful relationships that you have for me.”  A-men.