But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God,
II Timothy 3:1-4 (NKJV)
How does a person overcome a selfish spirit? Paul, writing to Timothy, put his finger on the problem of selfishness as the prevalent sin, particularly in our closing moments of history.
Paul emphasizes that "in the last days there will come times of stress." The King James Version says, "perilous times." But what makes this time so stressful and perilous? He begins his answer by unequivocally stating that "men will be lovers of self." Then he proceeds to expound on this philosophy by listing a dozen and one-half traits of selfishness. Study each trait mentioned -- "lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful," et cetera. Then ask yourself, What is the root of them all? Let's think about it. Is a covetous person selfish? What about the boaster? Why are people proud? Selfishness leads to conceit, and to loving pleasure more than God.
In short, the cause of every problem in life can be traced to selfishness. Every case of marital difficulty I have know involves a huge dose of selfishness. If a couple whose marriage is in jeopardy can solve the selfishness problem, happiness will be inevitably theirs. If a solution to the worldwide problem of selfishness could be found, our planet would become like heaven.
Amazingly, there is a wonderfully simple solution. It is the principle and power of the cross of Christ. The verse that follows our text claims that some hold "the form of religion but deny...the power of it." Those who accept this power may suffer persecution, but their lives will be rich and full.
In writing to the Corinthian church, "Paul was convinced that if they could be brought to comprehend the amazing sacrifice made by the Majesty of heaven, all selfishness would be banished from their lives." The Acts of the Apostles p.333
Take a fresh look at the cross and see what happens in your life.
taken from: First Things First
April 12
by: Bob Spangler
