Living a self-focused life comes naturally and it seems like it will bring happiness. But the truth is that it’s a trap that only leads to sadness and dysfunction.
Talking Points:
- Jesus taught that the more we try to cling to our own self-centered mindset, the more we actually lose out on real life. Matthew 16:25, James 3:16
- Jesus also taught that the more we look out for others and seek to serve others, the more joy we will actually experience. Philippians 2:4
- Real joy, satisfaction, and meaning in life comes not from serving ourselves, but from living on a mission to serve others. John 17:18
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Think of some times in your life when you’ve experienced the most deep joy and satisfaction. Where these times primarily when you were being me-centered or others-centered?
- What are some examples of healthy self-interest?
- What are some signs that you’ve moved from healthy self-interest to unhealthy selfishness?
- Read Matthew 16:25. What are some of the ways we “lose” our lives if we persist in a me-first mindset?
- Read James 3:16. What are some examples of the kind of disorder that can come from a me-first life?
- Read John 17:13-18. What are some of the elements that are involved in experiencing the joy Jesus desires for us?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
