The Danger of “Self”

The Danger of “Self”

Reflections by Rev. Harry Stackhouse               

Ephesians 6:12 “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual wickedness in heavenly places.” NAS

There are spiritual powers of darkness in this world that are influencing Christians to become “self-absorbed”. In this mode all attention is directed toward self.

In the 1960’s there emerged a philosophy that translated itself into a cultural movement that said, “If it feels good to you do it. The effects of that movement are still resounding in our society, and have infiltrated the Church of Jesus Christ with a vengeance.

Pleasing self has become the western world’s main interest, beginning with self-esteem to self-gratification. Unfortunately, self-interest lures the believers, from concept that “suffering” for Christ’s sake is not really Christian which is the direct opposite to what believers are supposed to do.  Jesus spoke in Matthew 5:11 says, “Blessed are you when men cast insults at you, and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely, on account of Me.”

The “self-movement” is a clever scheme used by Satan to undermine the heart and soul of Christianity.  His scheme is anchored in Darwin’s theory that the first law of nature is “self-survival”, but the holy word of God says in Romans 12:10, “Be devoted to one another in brotherly; give preference to one another in honor.”

Always pray that your main motivation for making a decision, appointing a person to a position, or giving recognition is not for the person but for the whole congregation.

“Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important that himself; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interest of others.” Philippians 2:3-4.

Kill “self” and Christ will come alive in you. Are you a “self-pleaser”?