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“An Abundance of Self-Focus”

Thoughts for Today:

A few months ago a young man was complaining to me about being passed over for a promotion at work. He was going on and on about how much more qualified he was than his co-worker. How his production was greater, and how much more he needed the extra money. I didn't say a word. Finally, he stopped and asked, "So what do you think?" I said, "You know me pretty well, what do you think I'm going to say?" He thought for a moment then said, "This is probably going to be a First Corinthians Thirteen 'love' teaching." I laughed and said, "Of course it is, so let's take a look at what Paul says 'love' isn't." We started with our passage today: "Love does not envy."

A lot of problems come as the result of envy. James said: "For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice (James 3:16)." Envy, conflict and rivalry all go together. They open the door for the evil work of Satan to take hold in our lives. They give the Enemy freedom to do his worst, and which if left un-repented, leads to a harsh landing.

Our model is God's type of love -- it is neither envious nor jealous. It doesn't seek out what's best for our self, but what is good for others first. Love never asks why another was praised, honored or promoted. Conversely, envy is an indication of an over abundance of self-focus.

Questions to Ponder:

Where is your focus placed today? On what you want that others have, or gratitude for what God has given you? Do your thoughts reflect self-centeredness or sacrifice?

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About the author

Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.