When Pride and Selfishness Rule Hearts
Everywhere you look, pride is running the show. People crave recognition. Self-promotion is normal. Entire platforms are built around broadcasting ourselves to the world. And selfishness? That’s almost celebrated. “Look out for number one.” “Do what’s best for you.” That’s the mantra of the day.
But what would Jesus do in a world like this? He already showed us. He did the exact opposite.
Philippians 2:5-8 paints the picture perfectly. “He made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant… he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross.”
Jesus — the King of kings — laid aside His rights. He chose the towel and basin instead of the throne. He washed feet, walked dusty roads, and submitted Himself to rejection and death, all so others could live.
He didn’t fight to be first. He didn’t demand applause. He didn’t use His power for selfish gain. Instead, He modeled humility and servanthood from beginning to end.
So what would Jesus do when pride and selfishness rule hearts?
He would refuse to exalt Himself.
He would take the low position without hesitation.
He would serve others even when it cost Him deeply.
He would call us to do the same. In Matthew 23:11-12, He said, “The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
How should we follow Him today?
Reject the need to always be seen and praised. Embrace the hidden, humble work. Serve without expecting recognition. Put others first, not because they deserve it, but because Jesus did it for us.
Pride divides. Humility unites. Selfishness isolates. Servanthood draws people in.
The world says, “Make it about you.” Jesus says, “Make yourself nothing.” What would Jesus do? He would lower Himself to lift others up — and He would tell us to do the same.