All of us grapple with moments of selfishness in our lives. We know that it’s not God’s Will for us to be this way, but it’s challenging for some of us to change these tendencies. God teaches us in Philippians 2:3-5 (NLT): “3 Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4 Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. 5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.” These verses remind us to cultivate humility, prioritize others’ well-being, and adopt Christ’s selfless mindset as our own. We should be exceling in our commitment to give and share according to his example. If we’re not, we risk falling into the trap of self-centeredness, which not only hinders our spiritual growth but also diminishes our ability to reflect God’s love and grace to those around us.
We’re here on the earth to take advantage of the extraordinary privilege God has given us to become more like Jesus Christ. Giving and prioritizing others’ needs over our own desires enables us to follow his example and embody the truths he taught during his earthly ministry. His ultimate act of selflessness was sacrificing his life on the cross for our sins. This stands as the greatest testament to his love, and it’s our guiding light in this journey of faith.
Our beloved Savior never asked for repayment for all he did for us. He gave selflessly and lovingly, expecting nothing in return. It would benefit us greatly to follow his example of giving from the heart. 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NLT) reminds us: “You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” This verse encourages us to give willingly and joyfully, reflecting God’s love through our generosity.
When we approach giving with reluctance or a lack of joy, a few things happen. First, we miss out on the blessings that come from freely sharing with others, as God intends. The Bible teaches us to give cheerfully, without feeling pressured or reluctantly (2 Corinthians 9:7). When we hold back or give grudgingly, it can show that we’re more focused on ourselves than on loving others as God loves us. It can reveal a self-centered mindset or a failure to fully trust in God’s provision and promises. We should never want this.
Instead, God invites us to embrace a different way of living—a way that reflects His generosity and love. Hebrews 13:16 (NLT) teaches: “And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God.” Giving and sharing cheerfully means doing so wholeheartedly, without expecting anything in return. When we give joyfully, we not only bless others but also discover the joy and freedom that come from trusting in God’s abundant provision. This mindset shifts our focus from lack to abundance, from selfishness to selflessness.
By nurturing a spirit of cheerful giving, we partner with God in a profound way. We align ourselves with His heart and His desire for us to embody His grace and love through Jesus Christ. It’s a privilege and responsibility to imitate His compassion and spread His light. So, let’s participate joyfully in God’s work of blessing and transforming lives. This is how we fulfill His purposes on earth and lay up treasures for ourselves in heaven. ■
Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.
“Giving without Expectations”, written for Walk in the Light Outreach ©2024. All rights reserved. All done to the glory of God through Jesus Christ, our Lord!
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