It is amazing how our lives changed after we came to Christ. No longer do we put ourselves first, but God becomes first. In our old life, we would simply say self-preservation is the first law of nature. That may well be in the old life, but in Christ, we “seek first the Kingdom of God” knowing that all the other things will be added (Matthew 6:33). In earlier devotions, I have referenced the motto of the Rotary: Service Above Self. I think they have it: in fact, I know they have it. We live in a world consumed with selfishness – it’s all about me as opposed to us. But we are our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers. The Word of God has so much to say about loving others. In John 21:17, Jesus said to Peter, “Do you love me? If so feed my sheep.” In I Corinthians 10:24, we find these words:

“Don’t be concerned for your own good but for the good of others.”

Paul describes love as neither selfish nor self-centered (1 Corinthians 13:5). He also provides guiding principles on sacrificial living. We must demonstrate our love to God by loving others and putting them first. He put others first when He was hanged on the cross. He who knew no sin took on ours. If we say we are Christians, which, simply put, is to be like Christ, we must do the same. This is a hard lesson, but it is one for which we must all strive. If you are struggling with putting others first, ask God to soften your heart. Strive to put others first starting today.