More often than not I still see more evidence of selfishness in my life than of love, trust, and service. My actions are often masked in the idea of these things, but in reality, the motives are usually more about what I get in return. I think if we are honest, we all struggle with this daily. The interactions with our spouses, our children, friends, and co-workers carry hidden messages of self indulgence and pride. I had one of those moments today and I had to really step away and ask myself, “What’s the real issue here? Why do I still struggle so much with wanting to fulfill my own selfish desires.” As I laid these questions before God, I could hear Him gently say, “There are still some places where don’t fully trust me.” Can you say OUCH!! He was right. Every moment of the conversation I’d just had was covered in a fear that God wouldn’t provide for my future. That somehow He isn’t big enough to make whatever He wants out of my life. If I had taken a few minutes before I spoke, I would have seen that every word was based in fear instead of trust, worry instead of peace, and selfishness instead of surrender. In the process of our path to fulfill our own needs, we tear down the hearts of others around us. We belittle, we complain, we accuse, and we cause walls to build up. We build idols to ourselves and form kingdoms around the things “we” want or feel or need, and before we know it, God isn’t in the center. Removing ourself from the throne of our life is a daily process. If we are to truly let God take the place He requires in our life, we must become intentional about seeking Him above all things and in every situation. We must become aware of those moments when our “self” steps in and quickly stop and surrender to God all over again. We must lay down our pride and be willing to admit our selfish behaviors.
I want this life to reflect more of God than myself. I want those around me to see more of God than they do of me. I want my family to see an example of a life that is centered around worshipping a God that is worthy of all of our praise.
As I leave you with this short note and close out another Monday, I pray God will speak to your heart and remove one more layer of selfishness, making more room for Him.
It’s not too late.. He’s waiting.. Let’s go meet with Him
For Reflection:
“Even while these people were worshiping the Lord, they were serving their idols. To this day their children and grandchildren continue to do as their ancestors did.” 2 Kings 17:41 (NIV)
“I am the Lord; that is my name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols.” Isaiah 42:8 (NIV)
1. What areas in my life still have idols of selfishness instead of surrender to God?
2. Who is impacted the most by these areas of selfishness in my life?
3. What does God want to teach me about Himself and my relationship with Him by revealing these areas to me?
Original Post: 10.13.2014
A Girl and Her God 