Come Bible with Ana Podcast
Hello brother's and sister's in Christ! This channel was created to share my love of God with other's and grow with you in knowing God more deeply daily. None of us our perfect and God says to come as you are! The Bible tells us He will come find you, God has found you and God can heal your brokenness. This is a chance to discuss and put into practice what God calls us for, our purpose. How God is covering our relationships, and the struggles that may come along the way. The ups and downs of being a follower of Christ. Day to day life, how can we keep moving forward and not let Satan take over our lives and bring us back to sin. Loving God is easy, living for God can be hard but is worth every bit of the hardship. We will discuss, learn, and try to get some answers to questions we are unsure of about the Bible here at our table. So come Bible with ME and share your love for God!
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Come Bible with Ana Podcast
Overcoming Selfishness: A Biblical Perspective
Selfishness permeates our culture with constant messaging to "live your best life" and prioritize personal fulfillment above all else. But what happens when these cultural values directly conflict with Christ's call to selflessness? This thought-provoking episode dives deep into what the Bible actually teaches about putting ourselves first - and the surprising consequences that follow. Through careful examination of key scriptures like Philippians 2:3, James 3:16, and Mark 10:45, we uncover God's perspective on selfishness as more than just a personality flaw but as a spiritual issue with serious ramifications. The Bible consistently warns that selfish behavior leads to damaged relationships, isolation, poor reputation, and most importantly, an impaired walk with Christ. Jesus demonstrated the ultimate selfless love by sacrificing everything for us. As His followers and physical representatives on earth, we're called to mirror this sacrificial love - placing others' needs above our own despite our natural tendencies toward self-centeredness. The transformation isn't instant, but through prayer, scripture, and yielding to the Holy Spirit, we can gradually overcome selfish tendencies. While we'll never achieve perfection in this life, we can continually grow more Christlike with each intentional choice to serve rather than be served. What would change in your life if you began intentionally fighting against selfishness? How might your relationships, reputation, and spiritual life transform if you put others first? Share this episode with someone who might benefit from this message, and continue seeking God through prayer and His Word.
Bible
- Mark 10:45
- Matthew 22:39
- Galatians 6:7
- Luke 10:25-37
- James 3:16
- Proverbs 18:1
- John 15:12-13
- John 3:16-17
- Matthew 19:21-22
- Galatians 5:22-23
- Psalm 119:36
Thank you for your support. I thank you for listening. I just want to say, none of this would be possible without God. So until next time, keep Bibling, keep spreading God's word, and seek God to fill you with the Holy Spirit! Pour out to Him and lay it at His feet. Open your ears, your hearts and your minds, and put God first and see him work in everything, give God your heart, soul and life. Be disciplined in God and dig deeper in God's word. He loves you and so do I! This is the year of renewal and building your relationship and foundation on God's word.
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Email: Abcd.family4@gmail.com Instagram: bc2sisters TikTok: ana_rosa1024
Hey, there it's Anna with God's Podcast. In today's episode, we are going to talk about selfishness, but before we begin, let us start with prayer, because we need God to be with us, to surround us, to fill us with his Holy Spirit of wisdom, of peace, of understanding and discernment. So let us pray, brothers and sisters, in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Father, I come before you through your Son, jesus Christ, and I lift up each and every person listening. Father, I ask that you continue to bless them. I ask that you continue to open their ears, their hearts and their minds to you. Father, for your words, your wisdom, your understanding and your discernment. Father, I just am used as your vessel, but they need to go back to you and get words from you, understanding from you, so that you speak to them and fill them with the Holy Spirit and your presence. Father, I just want to say thank you. Thank you for allowing me to do this, because without you, I would not be able to have the courage, the strength or the wisdom or the understanding that the seeds that we plant flourish and become fruitful. So thank you, father, for allowing me to share your word and your good news and your promise, and I glorify you and I praise you in Jesus' mighty name, amen. Like I said, brothers and sisters, we are going to talk about selfishness, but I have to ask you a few things beforehand.
Speaker 1:I'm having a hard time coming up with an intro to this podcast. I want it to glorify God and I want the song to be great and memorable, that when you think of this podcast, it brings you joy. The song brings you to remember who and what we are talking about. So I'm asking for your opinions, your encouragement, your comments on this matter. So please help me with the intro. Should I have a beginning where I introduce myself? I know that I always say that it's God's podcast, and it truly is, because he gives me the wisdom and the understanding. But I want the intro to be something that is great to start us off, because this is your podcast too. You listen to it each and every week and I really want to know what opinion or what intro would interest you. So thank you in advance. I know I've been doing this for a long time and I switch it up every single episode because I just don't know what type of intro to have. So I'm asking for your opinion. So please engage and help me in this process so that it can be a permanent intro and it can be the same each and every week.
Speaker 1:So let's dig deep into this topic of selfishness, brothers and sisters. Let's explore its connection to the Bible and God's teaching. Listen, we all are selfish, whether we want to admit it or not, and these characteristics most of us are not willing to embrace. As a matter of fact, most of us will deny that we have these characteristics, which exhibit selfish behavior that typically prioritizes our own needs and desires above all else. That typically prioritizes our own needs and desires above all else.
Speaker 1:Listen, brothers and sisters, in today's society, there is a strong emphasis on selfishness, particularly as highlighted in so many various media and social media platforms. The phrase you've heard it a million times live your best life often emphasizes personal fulfillment, personal happiness and self-recognition. While these concepts can be positive, brothers and sisters, they may sometimes overshadow or conflict with the principles of what living for Christ truly means, which often involves self-denial, which often involves self-denial, sacrifice and serving others. Listen, brothers and sisters, being selfish doesn't mean that you can't think of yourself. I'm not saying that at all. But when selfishness takes over. That is when it becomes a problem, when you're thinking of yourself before all else. So this is where we're going to dig in.
Speaker 1:Listen, brothers and sisters, many believers, living for Christ means prioritizing your spiritual growth, your community, and aligning one's actions with faith-based values, meaning how we act and how we live has to align with God, and these things can lead to a different interpretation of what it means to live a fulfilling life, a life that encompasses not just your personal happiness, but also a commitment to love, a commitment of service, a commitment of obedience to God, brothers and sisters, and if you don't like these key points, I am truly sorry. God, brothers and sisters, and if you don't like these key points, I am truly sorry, but this is the way my brain works and how I can break apart important things. So I hope that this truly helps you and that you can also enjoy these key points. And, truly, if we could balance these perspectives, these requirements, these thoughtful reflections on what truly it means to live a best life, in both a worldly and spiritual sense, that is aligned with our Lord and Savior, what a beautiful life that would be. It is possible, with our Lord and Savior, to be able to live a life like this, brothers and sisters, and I want to remind you we do not have to live a life and be selfish.
Speaker 1:Listen, brothers and sisters, selfishness is themed throughout the Bible and it is often in relation to human behavior and morality. There are many scriptures that highlight the importance of selfishness, love for others and serving one another, contrasting these virtues with selfishness. Listen, brothers and sisters, I am not sure whether you enjoy my episodes that highlight key points, but they certainly help me organize my thoughts and what is important and how to explain scripture, key points to save in the back of your mind so that you can come back and remember that these points are important and get an understanding for yourself. And it allows me to break down what God's word says. So I truly hope that you can understand why I put key points in each episode and if you don't, I am sorry. I truly am, but, like I said, this is how my brain works and how I organize key concepts of what God is trying to tell me or share with me. So let's look at these key points and what the Bible says together.
Speaker 1:Number one warning against selfishness. The Bible warns us against selfishness in several passages, for example, in Philippians 2.3, it urges believers to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves. This explains to us the importance of considering others' needs and interests over our own brothers and sisters. Number two selfishness and sin. In James 3.16, it says for where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. This tells us that selfishness can lead to a range of negative behaviors and outcomes, showing how it can corrupt relationships and communities.
Speaker 1:Number three the example of Christ Jesus is portrayed as the ultimate example of selfishness. In Mark 10 45, it is stated For even the Son of man did not come to be served, but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many. This scripture highlights the Christian call to illuminate Christ's self-giving love rather than pursuing one's own interest. Number four love and selfishness. The commandment to love one's neighbor is a recurring theme in scripture. In Matthew 22, verse 39, jesus says you shall love your neighbor as yourself. This implies that love is inherently selfless and that selflessness contradicts the essence of true love.
Speaker 1:Number five consequences of selfishness. The Bible also speaks about the consequences of selfish behavior. In Galatians 6, verse 7,. It warns us Do not be deceived. God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.
Speaker 1:Selfish actions can lead to negative repercussions affecting both the individual and those around them. Number six strained relationships. Selfishness often leads to conflict and misunderstanding in personal and professional relationships. Friends, family and colleagues may feel undervalued or neglected, resulting in damaged bonds because of this selfishness. Number seven isolation. Individuals who constantly prioritize their own needs over others may find themselves isolated. Over time, people may choose to distance themselves from someone perceived as self-centered. So don't be selfish, brothers and sisters. Number eight lack of support. Selfish behavior can result in a lack of support. During challenging times, when someone is always looking out for their own interests, others may be less inclined to offer help when needed.
Speaker 1:Number nine a negative reputation. Listen, a selfish attitude can lead to a poor reputation. People may view you untrustworthy or inconsiderate, which will hinder personal and professional opportunities for you, brothers and sisters. Number 10. Emotional consequences. Selfishness can lead to feelings of guilt or shame, which may allow us to realize the impact of our actions on others, leading to internal conflict and emotional distress. Listen, brothers and sisters, nobody wants to have an emotional consequence because of our behavior and how we act towards others. We need to be more aligned with our Lord and Savior and reflect and be more like Jesus each and every day of our lives.
Speaker 1:Number 11, missed opportunities for growth. By focusing solely on oneself, individuals may miss opportunities for personal growth that come from collaboration, empathy and shared experiences. Number 12, cycle of selfishness. Selfish actions can initiate a cycle in which others mirror that behavior, resulting in a culture centered on self-interest rather than collaboration and generosity. Number 13, impact on mental health. Chronic selfishness can contribute to feelings of loneliness and dissatisfaction, ultimately affecting mental health and overall well-being.
Speaker 1:Brothers and sisters, these key points point back to what the Bible tells us that we need to be selfless human beings, to not put our own needs above others, that we are here to serve just like Jesus. I truly hope these key points help you and that you can come back to this episode and take these key points and apply them to your life. And this leads me to remind you that, throughout scripture, acts of selfishness and service are celebrated. Jesus's teachings truly highlight the value of serving others. It amplifies in this parable of the Good Samaritan, which you can find in Luke 10, verse 25 through 37. The Samaritan helps a wounded traveler, demonstrating to us that the true neighborly love transcends socially and ethnic boundaries. This parable is a reminder to us that selflessness can lead to missed opportunities for kindness and connection. And if you've never heard of this Good Samaritan story, go back to Luke and read it for yourself.
Speaker 1:The Bible also cautions us about the dangers of selfishness. In James, chapter 3, verse 16,. It states For where you have envy and selfish ambitions, there you find disorder and every evil practice. This reminds us that selfishness not only harms relationships, but can also lead to broader societal issues. While looking out for oneself is important, excessive selfishness can lead to a host of negative outcomes that affect both the individual and their relationship with others. So, in other words, brothers and sisters, as Christians, we are the physical representation of Christ on this earth. In our actions, we need to strive to show him through loving others and placing their interests above our own. Loving others and placing their interests above our own. The world places a huge emphasis on doing what we want despite the better interests of others. In other words, brothers and sisters, we are going to have to live the opposite of what culture tells us to live. Those who are selfish will tear down others in order to elevate themselves or to get what they want.
Speaker 1:Selfishness is a very ugly quality for an individual to have and can do great damage to others. Since selfishness is a sin, it impairs our walk with Christ. Whenever we are actively living in sin, our relationship with Christ will be affected. Selfishness will also cause us to lose friendships and relationships, which states this in Proverbs 18, verse 1. Listen, brothers and sisters, it will be hard to be friends or be in a relationship with someone if they are actively trying to seek out their own wants and desires above the friendship or relationship.
Speaker 1:Selfishness causes us to think only of ourselves and on our own wants. Since we are all born with a sinful nature, doing everything we want can turn bad really fast. Thinking only of ourselves is not aligning with the word of God. We need to always place others' interest over our own. Jesus tells us to love others as he has loved us, like it says in John, chapter 15, verses 12 through 13,. When we love others, we are going to place their own wants and desires over our own. This is ultimately what love is all about Placing someone else's needs or wants above your own or our own. Jesus shows us the ultimate image of someone who is unselfish and who truly loves everyone by dying on the cross for our sins. Just like John, chapter 3, verses 16 through 17, say the Lord died for us in order for us to be forgiven of our sins and to have eternal life with him. Brothers and sisters, he was selfless in his love and freely chose to die for our sins in order for us to be with him forever.
Speaker 1:In Matthew 19, verses 21 through 22, it talks about a young man which selfishness turned him away from following Jesus. Selfishness only causes us to drift away from God and, just like the young man in Matthew 19, verses 21 through 22, it can cause us to completely fall away from following God. In addition to selfishness causing us to fall away from Christ, it can also cause a disruption in our prayers and relationship with Christ. Brothers and sisters, as believers and as followers of Christ, we do not need to allow anything to disrupt our relationship with Christ, including selfishness. Jesus is the most important person in our lives and we do not need to allow anything to disrupt our relationship with him. Struggling with selfishness can happen to all of us, brothers and sisters. In fact, due to the sinful nature, we are inherently selfish.
Speaker 1:It is only through the saving grace of Jesus and the transformation of the Holy Spirit that we can work to fight against this sin of selfishness. The more we walk in spirit, the better we will get at producing the fruit of the spirit. Furthermore, the more we read the Bible and become knowledgeable about it, the more we will know about God and strive to be like him. Brothers and sisters, the Holy Spirit is the one who can help us transform our lives, since the Holy Spirit is the third member of the Trinity, he is God. Through his work in our lives, we will be able to fight against selfishness In our daily walk. We need to fight against the flesh and strive to walk in the spirit. Paul tells us. So I say walk by the spirit and you will not gratify the desire of the flesh, which is stated in Galatians 5, verse 16. God wants us to be willing to put others above ourselves rather than being selfish. As followers of Christ, we should place others' interest above our own, because this is what Christ did for us.
Speaker 1:If you are struggling, brothers and sisters, with selfishness, the first step is to turn away from sin, is to accept that you are struggling with selfishness. Admitting you have a problem is a huge step and you should rejoice that God has shown you this today and turn to him. We all struggle with selfishness at times and it is important for us to yield to God's conviction in our life. Pray to God and ask him to help you turn away from selfishness and place a conviction in your heart to put others above yourself. You can also ask him for strength and opportunities to help others in your daily life. Reading the Bible doesn't need to be overlooked either, because the Bible contains everything we need to know, including morals. Overlooked either, because the Bible contains everything we need to know, including morals. Psalm 119.36 tells us turn my heart toward your statues and not toward selfish gain. Praying this verse is a great prayer to ask God to help you overcome selfishness. God answers all prayers according to his will, brothers and sisters, and he will help you in this struggle. Never doubt God's faithfulness and the power of prayer.
Speaker 1:By truly loving others, as Christ commanded us, will help us overcome selfishness on many levels. When we truly love others, we will place their needs above our own. True love for others is placing the other person's interest above our own and despite the teachings of the world, selfishness and only caring about yourself will not bring happiness to you or anyone around you. Think about this If you got everything you wanted, would it truly be good? Try to think about the things you wanted 10 or 5 years ago. Now, in retrospect, you may be able to see how the things you wanted were not actually the things you needed. Selfishness causes us to think we should get everything we want, but if we truly are living for Christ, we should be willing to do the things to bring Him glory and to help others. Listen, brothers and sisters by placing Jesus as the center of our life and by living according to the Bible, you will be able to set aside selfishness. Choose to love others rather than seeking out our own wants and desires. And don't get me wrong it can be hard at times because of our sinful flesh. Yet God can help us if we ask him.
Speaker 1:The Bible's perspective on selfishness encourages us individuals to reflect on our actions and consider the impact of our choices on others. Striving for a balance between self-care and community responsibility is essential, as the teachings of the Bible advocate for a life characterized by love, service and mutual support. By fostering a spirit of generosity and empathy, individuals contribute to a healthier life and your peers, which is central to the Christian faith or following Christ. The Bible encourages us, as believers, to overcome selfish tendencies and to prioritize the well-being of others, reflecting the characteristic of Jesus Christ in our lives, reminding us we will never be perfect, but we can strive to be more like Jesus. Brothers and sisters, listen, I hope you enjoyed today's episode and that you share it with somebody else, because we all need God each and every day and we are all sinful humans and allow our flesh to overtake sometimes.
Speaker 1:But it is a reminder that through Christ, through the Holy Spirit, that we can get through anything and that he will guide us, give us strength and wisdom and understanding. So continue to seek him, brothers and sisters, continue to pray and have relationship with him. So, until next episode, keep biblying, keep spreading God's word and try to allow the Holy Spirit to fill you with selfless ambitions and seek him. Let us pray In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Father, I come to you through your Son, jesus Christ, and I just want to say thank you. Thank you for your words, your wisdom, your understanding of selfishness. Father, your Bible, your words tell us that we need to be more like Christ and I ask God, that you continue to give us that strength to be more like Christ, to align our hearts with yours, to allow us to be vessels for your kingdom, to glorify you and to praise you and to share your word with others.
Speaker 1:Father, I ask for continued blessings. I ask that you continue to lift up those in need. Father, I ask for continued blessings. I ask that you continue to lift up those in need. You know their hearts, lord, and I ask you to heal them, whether it's physically, mentally, financially, whatever it is that they need. Father, hear their hearts and answer their prayers and be with them and let them know that you are with them. Surround them with your presence of peace, laughter, love and joy.
Speaker 1:Father, I just want to say thank you, and I love you and I praise you and I glorify you, because your word, your promise, is good news and we want to be fulfilled in that promise and have eternal life with you and when we come to you, that you will know us, father, and I pray all of this in Jesus' mighty name, amen. Listen, brothers and sisters, I hope you have a wonderful week and you enjoy this beautiful weather, and that you seek God, you pray to him and you feel his presence and you continue to share his word to those that need him each and every day, because we need him in every single decision, every single moment of the day, minute, second. He needs to be there. So thank you and until next episode.