“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. – Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV)”

Self-centeredness reigns in today’s world. There is virtually no place for ‘others’ in one’s life.

Yet, Jesus calls us to serve others as He did (Matthew 20:28, Mark 10:45). Indeed, greatness in God’s kingdom is humility (Matthew 18:4).

The apostle warns us not to conform to the patterns of this world. Therefore, as it seeks to please the ‘self’ above all else, we ought to value others above ourselves.

A Self-Centered Culture and Society

There is an increasing emphasis on individualism in today’s society. People rarely care about others unless they see a personal benefit.

While caring for ourselves is great, it becomes an issue when we focus so much on ourselves that we forget those around us.

Self-centeredness, as it manifests today, has three main causes:

• Pain: Hurt people tend to withdraw from others. They put mental and emotional walls up and feel that only they can truly care for their well-being. As one refuses to connect with others or let others in as a coping mechanism, they also turn a blind eye to others’ needs. They become the very thing that hurt them.
• A  Focus on Individualism vs. Community: Self-centered people tend to want to be the center of attention. They are looking for affirmation, acclamation, and validation. This attitude often pushes people away. Thus, they become more isolated and focused on themselves; rather than others. This leads to a fragmented society: personal success is prioritized over collective well-being.
• The Illusion of Freedom: When a society is thriving [economically], people become more independent. Because they don’t need someone else’s skills or resources, connections are forsaken. It creates an ‘us vs. them’ mentality. People are no longer seen as potential partners or helpers but as a competition and a threat to perceived freedom or independence. Focusing on personal goals is empowering, however, it can lead to disconnection from others. True freedom is being aware of how personal choices impact the community.

The Remedy for Self-Centeredness

Laser focus on the ‘self’ is plainly unbiblical. God urges us to develop an others-centered mindset (Philippians 2:3-4, John 15:12-13, Romans 15:1, 1 Corinthians 10:24).

Jesus commands us to love our neighbors, be they foes or friends. Godly, biblical love is not mere feelings. It is action. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 details what love is and how it operates:

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

Developing an others-centered attitude means operating from a place of love. The unconditional, selfless love Jesus modeled to us.

Jesus Served

Because of the fall, we carried the burden of sin and separation from God.

Jesus came, took that burden upon His shoulders, and relieved us of that pain.

In Matthew 11:28 He invites us, ‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.’

It is one thing to help someone carry a heavy burden, it is another thing to take that load off of them completely.

And Jesus did it. Praise be to God!

Came to Serve, not to be Served

“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. – Mark 10:45 (NIV)”

As the Messiah, people expected Jesus to be a mighty political warrior. They wanted to see Him being waited on, giving orders, and enjoying the finest things of the land.

However, He came as a sacrificial lamb and met the people’s deepest, most significant needs (Isaiah 53:7). He had no home, servants, or riches (Matthew 8:20).

Yet, He served without ceasing. He did not seek affirmation, acclamation, or validation (Matthew 16:20; Mark 8:29-30).

He chose servanthood over personal glory or authority.

Jesus, a Lifestyle of Service

Jesus led a ministry of service.

He embodied humility and selflessness. He demonstrated that true greatness lies in serving others (Mark 10:43).

He served because He desired the people’s well-being. But above all, He called them to a higher standard of living, faith, and righteousness.

He would question them so they could tap deeper into their faith. 

• He asked the blind man what he wanted so that he could be specific about his request (Luke 18:38-43). 
• He was merciful to the adulterous woman but challenged her to change her lifestyle (John 8:1-11). 
• He urged the healed paralytic man to live righteously (John 5:1-14).

Jesus taught the people, healed the sick, forgave sinners, and fed the hungry.

He washed the disciples’ feet, a task reserved for a servant unto the house’s master. 

Jesus’ service was complete. He addressed both the physical and spiritual needs of those around Him.

Jesus’ Ultimate Act of Service

Jesus’ biggest, greatest act of service was His sacrifice on the cross. He suffered the punishment we deserved.

He reconciled us with the Father so we could walk in harmony with Him. Through His sacrifice, we find rest, peace, and joy.

He freed us from the bondage of sin and death (2 Timothy 1:10).

He gave us authority (Luke 10:19) and in Him, we become proper vessels that can partner with God to restore humanity.

If that is not love, then what is it?

In John 15:13 He says there is no greater love than to lay your life down for a friend.

And He calls us to do the same.

Following Jesus’ Model of Serving Others

Christians are to be like Christ. Romans 8:29 says that we are being conformed in His image.

Therefore, Jesus served, so should we.

Service, a Love Language

Acts of service is one of the 5 main love languages. Essentially, a love language is the way someone expresses or receives love.

Jesus tells us that the two greatest commands are to love God and love one’s neighbor (Matthew 22:36-40).

How do we love our neighbors in God’s way? Through service:

“For you, my brothers, were called to freedom; only do not let your freedom become an opportunity for the sinful nature (worldliness, selfishness), but through love serve and seek the best for one another. – Galatians 5:13 (AMP)”

It is also through acts of service that we can best love our enemies as Jesus commands.

In Luke 6:27-28 He says, ‘But I say to you who hear [Me and pay attention to My words]: Love [that is, unselfishly seek the best or higher good for] your enemies, [make it a practice to] do good to those who hate you, bless and show kindness to those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you’

When we serve others, we reflect the love of Christ, who came not to be served but to serve.

Practical Ways to Serve

A heart that aims to serve is a heart that sees people as God’s image bearers. In desiring to help, we share God’s heart for humanity.

Every act of kindness and service is a way to glorify God and demonstrate our faith in action.

Yet, we must be careful not to be motivated by the wrong things. 

Serving is giving: of our time, resources, knowledge, or efforts to meet a need. As such, it should be done willingly and joyfully (2 Corinthians 9:7), reflecting God’s generous nature. 

Here are some practical ways to serve:

1. Volunteer: Engage in local charities, shelters, community events, or food banks. Create a community cleaning group for your neighborhood. 
2. Helping Your Literal Neighbors: Cook and deliver food. Offer to pick up groceries, medicines, or other essentials. Drive someone to appointments, work, or school.
3. Offer Your Resources to Someone in Need: Babysit or Pet-sit to give someone a break.  Listen to someone’s concerns and offer encouragement. Teach or mentor someone in an area where you have expertise.
4. Visit the Sick or Elderly: Assist with household tasks like cooking, cleaning, or laundry. Help with setting up or troubleshooting devices. Spend quality time and assist in their daily routines. Create a joyful environment through laughter, music, movies, dance, or games.
5. Pray for Others: Intercede for friends, family, and strangers. Offer your prayers when you have no other resources.  Be available to talk and provide a safe space for someone to share their thoughts and feelings.
6. Support Your Church: Teach, usher, or participate in outreach programs. Join missionaries. Encourage your leaders. Offer your gifts to a ministry.

Remember, serving is not just about the tasks we complete, but the heart with which we serve.

Conclusion 

“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. – 1 John 3:16 (NIV)”

Although we live in a self-centered, and borderline selfish, society, it is possible to love others as Jesus commands.

When we look at Jesus and model our character after His, we develop a heart for our fellow human beings. 

We care for, love, and serve them as He did.

Throughout His life, Jesus, our Master, served. We are called to do the same.

We serve by offering our time, effort, or resources to meet someone’s needs or make their life easier.

Above all, may our service be a reflection of God’s love.