Putting Others First

Don’t be concerned for your own good but for the good of others. [1 Corinthians 10.24]

Although Paul is talking specifically here about food offered to idols, the statement here is universal in its application.

How might society look if people genuinely placed the good of others ahead of their own good? How might our churches look if every member put others first? How might our family look if we were selfless toward those with who we live?

The Golden Rule is universal in its scope. In fact, most of humanity recognizes its validity whether from a religious disposition or not. But, like so many good principles and sayings, putting others first is far easier said than done. This is especially true in a society whose main focus begins with self.

Jesus demonstrated concern for others. In fact, Jesus pointed out that what He was doing should be observed and duplicated:

There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. [John 15.13]

Never is a person more like Jesus (miracles and all) than when he or she puts the needs of others above their own.

Here is an interesting thought. We are not nearly as likely to see the needs of others if we are not looking for the needs of others! In other words, if the only needs we are looking for are our own, it is highly unlikely we will see the needs of others.

Seeing the needs of others then, is not something that randomly or naturally comes to us. It is something we must make conscious effort to do. And that sums up the life of Jesus!

Father, I do want to be like Jesus. I see today that looking like Jesus starts and ends with putting others first.