The Center of My Universe

Do nothing out of
selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than
yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to
the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ
Jesus. (Philippians 2:3–5)

Everything we do in
life—every decision we make—can directly impact not only ourselves but others
as well. Yet often we don’t stop to consider the consequences our poor choices
may have on other people. This is a truth I see played out in my own family day
in and day out. We make so much of life about ourselves, as though we are the
center of our own universe.



If I were to take an
honest look at myself and all the decisions I make, I would have to answer the
basic question, “Who am I living for?” When I make the choice to use a credit
card in order to purchase something nonessential, am I doing that to satisfy a
desire I have, or do I have my family’s best interests in mind? Years of
frivolous spending have taught me that although I think I might be doing the
right thing at the time, I am actually doing harm to my family by making a bad
financial position even worse.  Momentary
pleasure can reap long-term consequences in some very unpleasant ways.



Even when I consider
my problems, some of which were brought on by circumstances beyond my control,
do I ask, “Why me?” or do I ask, “Why not me?” Do my attitudes and actions
under pressure reflect the belief that God is in control or that I am? 



I believe one reason
we live such defeated lives is that too often we turn our gaze inward, focusing
on our own problems, rather than outward, where we can look into the lives of
others. We get caught up in our own dilemma, seldom considering that others are
going through difficulties far worse than our own or refusing to believe that anyone
could understand how heavy our burden is. There is one who understands. His
name is Jesus.



Everything Jesus did
was motivated by his love for humanity. He came to serve, not to be served. He
came to love those who were unlovable, to forgive those who had done the
unforgivable, and to free those in bondage to their own sinful desires. He
could have saved himself from crucifixion, but he chose to lay down his life in
order that we might live forever.



Christ did not live
for himself; he lived for you and me.  Jesus
wants to be the center of your universe, the light that shines in your
darkness, and the source of your peace. You won’t find peace by looking inward.
You will only find his love, peace, and provision as you turn your gaze away
from yourself and fix your eyes on him.





From A
Pleasing Aroma:  Inspiring Devotions for
Joyful Living

Copyright © 2011 by Dee Dee Wike.  All
rights reserved.  www.deedeewike.com



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