Example of a servant - He was not selfish and jealous

When we talk about selfishness, as God's servants, we think that we do not fit this condition, after all we give our time and our life for others. Analyzing the attitudes of the Lord Jesus we observe that in Him there was no selfishness at all.

Look:

“Now John answered Him, saying, “Teacher, we saw someone who does not follow us casting out demons in Your name, and we forbade him because he does not follow us.” But Jesus said, “Do not forbid him, for no one who works a miracle in My name can soon afterward speak evil of Me. For he who is not against us is on our side.” Mark 9: 38-40

We notice a certain selfishness and jealousy in the disciples; perhaps they thought that only they had the right to serve and help people. But Jesus contradicted brutally, after all the more servants the better. Why limit those who want to contribute to the work of God? Why think that I'm the only one who has the condition to do a certain thing? Let’s think of ourselves, let’s do an analysis of this matter because all we want to find out must be asked and answered:

•       When you see a new servant being put in the work, what is your reaction? Do you get happy or you do not like it?

•       Do you feel superior to those who do not serve God or who have less time serving?

•       When you see someone getting a responsibility in the work of God, do you rejoice or get jealous?

•       Are you happy to bless others, or want everything just for you?

•       Do you give tasks or want to do everything for the fear that the other person will stand out more than you?

•       Do you put yourself in the other person’s place? It sounds easy, but in practice it is not so simple.

•       When a friend receives a compliment, do you get jealous? Do you usually compliment or criticize others? This can be jealousy.

•       When a work mate is blessed, what awakens in you? Joy or envy thinking that you deserved that blessing?

•       Do you think first on your well-being, your needs, or can you see the needs of those who are around you?

•       When someone offers to help you, do you let the person help you or just say no?

I think the answers to these questions will give you an accurate answer if you have been selfish and jealous or not. Throughout His ministry, Jesus never showed a selfish attitude. He counted on all who were willing to serve and help others. Everyone can contribute in some way to the work of God and we are all equally important.

If you detected something contrary to Jesus’ behavior, determine to change it now. But how, you may ask? Watching yourself, policing yourself, because when we are aware of ourselves we can control and dominate our attitudes and decide what to do, talk, think or feel.

God bless all the servants of God.

Translation by: Márcia Sebastião