Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.

Philippians 2:3-4 (NKJV)

 

People that are unhappy focus too much on themselves. They want others to make them happy because they are unable to pursue their own happiness. We must recognize that when we hold other people accountable for our happiness and blame them for our unhappiness, we are essentially exploiting them for our own selfish end.

Happy people, on the other hand, learn to take their eyes off themselves and focus on others. According to the Apostle Paul, we should not do anything for selfish purposes, but rather to help others get ahead in life. In other words, happiness isn't only about what happens to you; it's also about what you do for others.

Be interested in people and look for ways to bless them. In our individualistic and self-absorbed culture, we must cultivate a holy habit of stronger communal connections and care for people around us. It will liberate us from self-idolatry and self-indulgence. Keep an open heart and open mind, and God will show you who and how you are called to help and support. This requires faith and obedience.

A self-absorbed life limits God.

A generous life, however, allows God to give more to us and through us. When you are on assignment for God, you will never run out of His supply. The gospel promises that God will return to you more than you have given. For example, the kid with the five loaves and two fish had enough food to eat himself, but when he gave what he had to Jesus, he received twelve baskets full of everything. The boy didn't do it for a generous return, but he surely deserved it.

Follow the footsteps of Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve. Make it your life's choice to have a healthy sense of loving and serving the people God has put in your life.