ME FIRST

A newspaper once asked for answers to the question: “What’s wrong with the world?” One reply in particular became very famous. It simply said: “I am.”

In James 4:1 we read: “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?” The words “desires that battle within” talk about the selfishness inside each of us. That’s why in James 1:14 we are told: “Each person is tempted when they are
dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed”. James warns that such ‘me first’ instincts will destroy our friendship with God (4:4) and lead to arguments and fights with the people around us (VV.1-2).

We are told to put off ‘me first’ thinking. How do we do this? Firstly, “Submit to God” (4:7). We need to get our priorities right—God is God and His ways must always be first. Secondly, “Come near to God” (V.8). Deal with those needs and instincts that lead us to be selfish by going to God to be made brand new. Don’t be double-minded, wanting to follow Jesus, but keep doing your own thing as well. We need to put God, and God alone, first in our lives. Thirdly, “Humble yourselves before the Lord” (V.10). Then “He will lift you up”. Remember, ‘me first’ living is not the key to happiness. Put God first.

To pray about . . .

Dear God, please help me to put aside my selfish instincts. Your ways are best and lead to real joy and satisfaction.

WHEN YOU FORGET YOURSELF, YOU USUALLY START
DOING SOMETHING OTHERS WILL REMEMBER.

YouTh Edition – Our Daily Bread Ministries