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Your Question:
Is it selfish to want to live when others suffer?
Answer:
As a pastor and a man of faith, I've given this question a lot of thought. In my opinion, wanting to live when others suffer is not necessarily selfish in the wrong sense. In fact, Scripture teaches us to regard one another as more important than ourselves (Philippians 2:3). This means that our concern for others' well-being is not inherently selfish. Instead, it's a reflection of our love for God and our desire to live in accordance with His will. However, it's essential to distinguish between selflessness and self-absorption. If our desire to live is driven by a desire to continue enjoying the comforts and benefits of life, rather than a genuine concern for others, then it could be considered selfish. But if our motivation is to continue serving and loving others, even in the midst of suffering, then that's a different story altogether. As Christians, we're called to live for others, not just ourselves. In my own life, I've seen how selfishness can be a destructive force, not just in my own life, but in the lives of those around me. When we prioritize our own interests above all else, it can lead to hurt and harm for those we care about. But when we prioritize love, compassion, and service to others, even in the face of suffering, that's when we begin to live out the true meaning of selflessness. As the Bible says, "If one member suffers, all the members suffer with it" (1 Corinthians 12:26). So, I believe that wanting to live when others suffer can be a selfless act, as long as our motivation is rooted in love and a desire to serve others.
Sources:
christian theology
millard erickson
my utmost for his highest
oswald chambers
mere christianity
c s lewis
systematic theology
wayne grudem
reasonable faith
william lane craig
gods crime scene
j warner wallace
job
francis andersen
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