People who are self-centered aren’t able to please God. by James Davis

By James Davis

The Scriptural passage for today is found in Romans 8:5-8: “People whose lives are based on selfishness think about selfish things, but people whose lives are based on the Spirit think about things that are related to the Spirit. The attitude that comes from selfishness leads to death, but the attitude that comes from the Spirit leads to life and peace. So, the attitude that comes from selfishness is hostile to God. It doesn’t submit to God’s Law, because it can’t. People who are self-centered aren’t able to please God.” Paul is speaking to the early Christian church regarding ethical behavior with strict reliance on the Holy Spirit as guide. Selfishness has no part in the make-up of the one who has accepted God as his Savior and Lord. It does not mean that the person is not tempted to do selfish things for various reasons, but with the aid of the Holy Spirit, he is able to right the course and please God. These verses call for us to do periodic self-evaluations. Are we acting selfishly? Are we putting ourselves before others? Are we praying to the Holy Spirit for guidance? Paul tells us clearly that a selfish person is not pleasing to God. Let us, therefore, put aside anything which is displeasing to God–anything which might hinder our relationship with Him. Amen!

Happy Wednesday! Let’s share the love of God with others and put aside all selfish thoughts and ambitions.