From Self-Centered to Self-Sacrificing
Reading
Philippians 2:3-8; John 13:34-35
Devotional
The heart of God is captured in one word: gave. "God so loved the world that He gave..." Love in motion always moves from self-centeredness to self-sacrifice. Jesus, being in very nature God, didn't consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made Himself nothing, taking the form of a servant. This is our calling—to ask not "what can I get?" but "what can I give?" When we fast, serve, or show kindness primarily for our own benefit, we've missed the mark. True spiritual maturity is measured by how much we're willing to lay down for others. This doesn't mean enabling dysfunction or having no boundaries, but it does mean our default posture is giving, not taking. Today, look for opportunities to serve without recognition, to give without expectation of return, and to love without demanding reciprocation.
Reflection Question
In what area of your life are you still demanding your own way, and how can you shift to a posture of self-giving love?
Philippians 2:3-8; John 13:34-35
Devotional
The heart of God is captured in one word: gave. "God so loved the world that He gave..." Love in motion always moves from self-centeredness to self-sacrifice. Jesus, being in very nature God, didn't consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made Himself nothing, taking the form of a servant. This is our calling—to ask not "what can I get?" but "what can I give?" When we fast, serve, or show kindness primarily for our own benefit, we've missed the mark. True spiritual maturity is measured by how much we're willing to lay down for others. This doesn't mean enabling dysfunction or having no boundaries, but it does mean our default posture is giving, not taking. Today, look for opportunities to serve without recognition, to give without expectation of return, and to love without demanding reciprocation.
Reflection Question
In what area of your life are you still demanding your own way, and how can you shift to a posture of self-giving love?
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