Biblical Answer

The Problem with Defining Selfishness

The idea that wanting to live when others are suffering is selfish is a counterintuitive argument. It suggests that selfishness is the essence of Scripture, which is not the case. In fact, Scripture tells us to do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself (Phil. 2:3 NASB). This distinction between selfishness in the wrong sense and in the right sense is crucial. Selfishness that seeks our own good at the expense of others is wrong, and that is what is meant when we talk about selfishness.

The Christian Way of Living

The Christian way of living is different from the world's way of living. Christ says Give me All. I don't want so much of your time and so much of your money and so much of your life. I want it all. I want you to live for me alone (Mark 10:28-30). This is not about selfishness, but about living for something greater than ourselves. To live for ourselves is insanity and suicide; to live for God and for others is wisdom and life indeed. We do not begin to find ourselves until we have become willing to lose ourselves in the service of Christ and of others.

The Reality of Suffering

Suffering is a part of life that can have some benefit. It can give us a new perspective on life and help us to discover our true selves. As C.S. Lewis said, suffering either gives me to myself or it destroys me. You cannot find or receive yourself through success, because you lose your head over pride. And you cannot receive yourself through the monotony of your daily routine. Suffering can be a catalyst for growth and change, but it can also be destructive if we allow it to consume us. The key is to find a way to live with suffering, not to seek it out, but to endure it with hope and faith. We must recognize that we cannot insulate ourselves from suffering, but we can choose to care for those who cannot care for themselves and refuse to give up on those who feel like giving up. This is the Christian way of living, and it is the only way to find true fulfillment and happiness.