DEALING WITH SELFISHNESS

We begin the process of changing our selfish way of living by turning our will and life over to the care of God.  Both the Bible and the Big Book of AA clearly tell us that self-effort alone will not work. With God’s help, what are some of the actions we can take that will help us enter a new and satisfying way of unselfish living?

Be Humble:  Battling the sin of selfishness requires genuine humility.  This means thinking about others and the impact that life situations have had on them rather than always thinking about ourselves first and how life situations have impacted us.  Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. (Romans 12:3 NIV).

Pray and Study God's Word:  Prayer and meditation on God's word are necessary to our well-being in recovery.  The Bible teaches us: Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.  (Psalm 119:36; Philippians 2:3 NIV). 

Intentionally Honor Others:  As we live with God in recovery our attitude towards others becomes one of genuine care and concern rather than personal approval seeking.   Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong.  Hold tightly to what is good.  Love each other with genuine affection and take delight in honoring each other. (Romans 12:9-10 NLT)

Give Generously:  An unselfish person knows that money and possessions are for sharing not hoarding.  A sure cure for selfishness is the practice of giving.  You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35 NLT).

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, I want to learn from Your Word as recorded in the Bible and from those who have travelled this path before me.  I want to let go of my selfish ways and allow Your love to flow through me to others.  Help me to look beyond myself and become a person of humility and sober judgment. Help me to love others as You love me. Amen