Selfish Time

Am I selfish? Yes! With my time. Even though nothing is more fulfilling or satisfying than reaching out, sharing, giving myself to those in need, or spending quality time with my loved ones, I am such an individual of routine! There is so much to do and see, that I don't want to miss out on even one moment or event. I start out my day thinking of the goals that need to be met, and planning accordingly. I create my own agenda, and can easily get caught up in myself. I am so preoccupied and concerned with my "to-do" list that I either find myself grumbling about or simply closing any doors to unplanned opportunities. Am I avoiding a calling from God, and submitting to His plan?

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests but also to the interest of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus." (Philippians 2:3-5)

The bible considers selfish ambition as evil and one of the works of the flesh. We are to consider others interests as more important than ours, and to lay aside selfishness. I never really considered myself selfish until I started thinking about how it applies to me sharing my time with others even when it is an unknown or unseen event. Over the course of the last few years juggling marriage, raising a family, building on my career, and finding the time to spend in praise, worship, and fellowship, I have fallen into a trap of self sufficiency. I need to learn to "go with the flow" with a genuine heartfelt attitude, and listen to His calling bearing the gifts He has entrusted to me so that I don't taste the bitterness of selfish ambition. "True fulfillment, true rest, true refreshment, and true satisfaction will come to us when we abide in the place where God has called us." (Unknown)  

"God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised." (Hebrews 6:10-12)