Biblical Answer

The Illusion of Selfishness

The question of whether it is selfish to want to live when others are suffering is a complex one. On the surface, it may seem that wanting to live when others are suffering is a selfish act. However, this perspective is based on a flawed understanding of what it means to be selfish. Selfishness is often defined as seeking one's own good at the expense of others. However, this definition does not take into account the fact that we are all interconnected and that our actions have consequences for those around us.

The Christian Perspective

From a Christian perspective, the issue of selfishness is not about seeking one's own good at the expense of others, but about living a life that is centered on God and others. Scripture tells us to do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of us regard one another as more important than himself (Phil. 2:3 NASB). This means that we should be willing to put the needs of others before our own and to live for the benefit of others, not just ourselves. In fact, Christ says, "Give me All. I don't want so much of your time and so little of your love" (emphasis added). This is a call to live a life that is not centered on ourselves, but on God and others.

The Importance of Compassion

Ultimately, the question of whether it is selfish to want to live when others are suffering is not about selfishness at all, but about compassion and love. We are called to care for those who are suffering and to show them compassion and love. This is not a selfish act, but a selfless one. In fact, it is only when we live for others that we truly find ourselves. As the Bible says, "We do not begin to find ourselves until we have become willing to lose ourselves in the service of Christ and of others." (emphasis added). So, it is not selfish to want to live when others are suffering. In fact, it is a call to live a life of compassion and love, and to put the needs of others before our own.