Biblical Answer

Prioritizing Others Over Ourselves: A Biblical Perspective

When we prioritize others over ourselves, we demonstrate a heart of humility and love, which is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith. In Philippians 2:3-4, the Apostle Paul instructs believers to "look not only to their own interests, but also to the interests of others." This means putting the needs of others before our own desires and ambitions, and being willing to sacrifice for the sake of others. This mindset is in perfect consistency with the teachings of Jesus, who said, "Whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant" (Matthew 20:26).

The Benefits of Others-Directedness

When we prioritize others over ourselves, we experience a range of benefits, including a deeper sense of fulfillment and purpose. By focusing on the needs of others, we discover our own strengths and talents, and we learn to use them for the benefit of others. We also develop a greater sense of empathy and compassion, which enables us to understand and relate to others in a more meaningful way. Furthermore, prioritizing others over ourselves helps to break down barriers and build bridges between people, fostering a sense of community and unity. As the Bible says, "There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends" (John 15:13).

The Sovereignty of God in Prioritizing Others

It's worth noting that prioritizing others over ourselves is not just a human decision, but is also a reflection of God's sovereignty in our lives. As the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, God has a plan and purpose for each of us, and prioritizing others is often a key part of that plan. As the Apostle Paul says, "We are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do" (Ephesians 2:10). By prioritizing others over ourselves, we are simply aligning ourselves with God's will and purposes, and experiencing the joy and fulfillment that comes from living a life that reflects His character.