Selfless Shift

Read

1 Corinthians 13:5 “It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”

Think

Picture this: you’re in the middle of a hectic day, juggling tasks and feeling the weight of your to-do list. Someone interrupts with a request—a favor, a question, or just a need for your time. What’s your gut reaction? Frustration? Annoyance? We’ve all been there. But then we read Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 13:5: “Love is not self-seeking.” Suddenly, love becomes less about feelings and more about choices—choices that often go against our instincts.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s story gives us a powerful picture of what it looks like to live out selfless love. In 1939, Bonhoeffer was safely in America, far from the dangers of Nazi Germany. Yet he chose to return, knowing it would likely cost him his freedom—and his life. He did it not for recognition but to stand with the oppressed and to lead the underground church in a time of great suffering. His love wasn’t about his own safety or comfort—it was about obedience and sacrifice.

But self-seeking love doesn’t just show up in big, dramatic choices—it creeps into the small, everyday moments. It’s interrupting someone to make a point, ignoring a need because it’s inconvenient, or expecting a reward for a kind act. Jesus calls us to a different way. He had every right to demand praise and service, yet he humbled himself, washing feet, healing the broken, and giving his life for us.

This week, consider: where do self-seeking tendencies show up in your life? Choose instead to love like Jesus. Listen fully, serve quietly, and lift others up without expecting anything in return. Love that isn’t self-seeking doesn’t just transform others—it transforms you.

Apply

Forgo Recognition. When you do something kind, don’t mention it or seek acknowledgment. Let your selflessness reflect the love of Christ.

Pray

God, thank you for showing me the ultimate example of selfless love through Jesus. Help me to let go of my self-seeking tendencies and to love others with humility, putting their needs above my own. Transform my heart to reflect your love, so that my actions bring honor to you and bless those around me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.