In today’s self-centered culture, the concept of the “unholy trinity” – me, myself, and I – often takes precedence over our relationship with God and others. This self-focus can be a significant barrier to spiritual growth and fulfillment. At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we strive to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us” by embracing our mission of “Just 3” – Study, Share, Serve.
The Deceptive Nature of Self-Centeredness
The parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21 illustrates the dangers of self-centeredness. The rich man was consumed with his own success, using the words “I” and “my” repeatedly, as noted in the sermon. This focus on self led to his downfall, as he failed to acknowledge God as the source of his blessings. Proverbs 11:28 warns us that those who trust in their riches will fall, while James 4:13-15 reminds us to submit our plans to God’s will.
Study: Aligning with God’s Will
To combat self-centeredness, we must study scriptures that teach humility and reliance on God. Philippians 2:3-4 encourages us to consider others above ourselves, while Proverbs 3:5-6 calls us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts. By incorporating prayer and meditation into our daily routines, we can align our desires with God’s will and cultivate a heart of humility.
Share: Building Relationships Beyond Self
Sharing our lives with others is essential for breaking the cycle of self-centeredness. Philippians 2:4 urges us to look out for the interests of others, fostering a community of love and support. At Lakeview Christian Church, we encourage our members to share their time, talents, and resources to build meaningful relationships and make a positive impact in the lives of others.
Serve: Demonstrating Faith Through Action
Service is a powerful way to demonstrate our faith and shift our focus from self to others. By serving our community, we embody the love of Christ and fulfill our mission to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us.” Lakeview Christian Church offers numerous opportunities to serve, from local outreach programs to global missions. Through service, we can break free from the unholy trinity and live out our faith in action.
Conclusion The message of the rich fool reminds us that life’s true value is found in relationships and service, not in self-centered pursuits. As we examine our own lives, let us consider how we can guard our hearts against the unholy trinity and embrace our mission to study, share, and serve. By doing so, we become the change that Jesus has called us to be, impacting our world for His glory.
