“Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.”
— Philippians 2:4 (NASB)
Do you know people who only talk about themselves? When you eat a meal with them, the entire time they chatter on about their problems, their activities, their feelings, and their life. How much more fun is it to be with a girlfriend who also asks about your interests?
Besides being interested in other people and their lives, it’s important to look out for them as well as yourself. In a crowded lunch room or school bus, don’t just look for an empty seat for yourself; look for one for your friend as well. Instead of being “me-minded,” train yourself to be “others-minded.” Romans 12:15 (NKJV) says that we should “rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” Is your friend thrilled about her A on the science test? Then be happy with her. Is she sad because her grandma died? Then be sensitive to that and tone down your stream of chatter. “But what about me?” you ask. You want “give and take” in your friendships. But you’ll notice a wonderful thing that happens. While you’re busy meeting a friend’s need, God will meet yours.
More To Explore: 1 Corinthians 10:23 – 24 and Galatians 6:1 – 2
Girl Talk: Do you tend to always talk about yourself? Do you focus on others’ needs, not just your own?
God Talk: “Lord, I want to listen to others better and not just focus on myself. Please show me ways to help my friends and family. Amen.”
From No Boys Allowed by Kristi Holl