Love FOR self is not the same thing as love OF self.
In Jesus’ Words: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor AS YOURSELF.” Mark 13:30.
So love FOR self is commanded so that we can love others. But love OF self brings about a selfish pride that tarnishes relationships. It screams me, me, me!
Jesus taught love FOR self and practiced humility; He set the example for us to be humble while retaining self dignity and worth.
The centurion was a Roman soldier of great wealth, power, and authority, yet he said to a Jewish Rabbi, (Jesus) “I am not worthy to have you enter my home.” He was a man of great humility.
“Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof,” Matthew 8:8.
Genuine humility is a treasured quality in any man or woman. Humility is not the same as low self-esteem. The centurion was certainly no push-over that others could take advantage of , but he recognized Jesus’ power and he was humbled by it.
Corrie ten Boom spoke these words: “It is not my ability, but my response to God’s ability, that counts.”
Recognizing your own limitations and God’s divine capabilities is the first step in becoming humble, and humility is the first step toward obedience to the Lord of Life.
Have a blessed day!
In Christian love,
Diane