A mindset of selflessness

One of the biggest problems with the “Self-full” life as I like to call it is that this mindset will separate you from God. I know Romans 8:38-39 tells us that nothing can separate us from the love of God”. I am eternally grateful for that. I live in that and rejoice. But we can certainly put distance between ourselves and God’s Spirit. This life we have with Jesus is a relationship, right? Selflessness moves us closer to the other. I actively set aside my way and my agenda to see the other, to listen, to give them my attention and love. Selfishness is the act of pulling away, moving the attention to myself, not the other.

In order for God to do his work and have his way in my life, I need to let go. Jesus set a wonderful example for us. When asked about his purpose and mission, Jesus simply stated “…to do the will of the Father.” Of all the universe size things Jesus could have said, he basically just said …selflessness.

I cannot hear God or follow his Spirit when I’m listening to self and doing what I want. He cannot transform my life and renew my mind if I refuse to let him do that. He cannot do a new thing in me while I’m still holding on to the old thing. If I really want to follow Jesus and have a healthy spiritual life, I need to make self take a back seat.

Selflessness takes practice. When I set aside time to pray, I need to first remind myself that I’m there primarily to quiet my spirit and listen. Sometimes I ask God if I can get everything off my mind first. I dump all my fears and anxiety driven needs on him and go on and on about myself. He loves me and always listens without interruption. Then when turn to him, I realize how wonderful it is to just sit at his feet, hear his voice and worship. That experience draws me closer. It makes me want to put him first. Those times renew me and remind me how wonderful and beautiful selflessness can be.

Selflessness is a choice. It takes effort and practice. It requires discipline and focus. Don’t be content to remain distant from God. Look for opportunities to be selfless in situations throughout your day. When self seps up in your mind and demands to be heard, demands to be respected or to be right, be quick to see what’s really happening and shut that down. Watch what happens when you lean in and listen with interest to others. Give them the dignity and respect they deserve as a human created in God’s image. Selflessness always works. It’s always a win win. In John 15:26 Jesus said he would send us his Spirit as the Helper. Ask him for help! I promise he will be there.

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