Jesus is unequivocally clear. Those who want to be his disciple “must deny themselves” and follow him (Luke 9.23). The apostle Paul reminds us: “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death … For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin— because anyone who has died has been set free from sin” (Romans 6.4, 6-7 NIV; see also Galatians 2.20). And just in the past century, Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote: “When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die.”
Dying to self is not an option in the Christian life. Selflessness is integral to the Christ-like character. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:3–5 NIV).
Yet, we must be careful to avoid misunderstanding selflessness to mean not caring about our own spiritual wellbeing. Looking to the interests of others does not mean becoming sloppy and careless concerning our own spiritual condition. The truth is, genuine Christian selflessness is attentive to one’s own spiritual health. “Put yourselves to the test to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize regarding yourselves that Jesus Christ is in you—unless, indeed, you fail the test!” (2 Corinthians 13.5 NET) The Lord does expect us to pay attention to our spiritual condition and intentionally seek to grow in our faith (Hebrews 5.13-6.2).
Our own spiritual health is a crucial tool as we minister to others. For spiritual health is about having that vibrant, trusting relationship with the Lord. And when we minister out of the overflow of that vibrant faith, the one to whom we minister will truly be served well. That is why Paul reminds all of us: “Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers” (1 Timothy 4:15–16 NIV; emphasis added).
Remember what airlines tell passengers if ever an emergency occurs and oxygen masks are needed: “put on your own mask first before you help others.” You can’t help others if you pass out yourself! Similarly, a true follower of Christ will look out for self, yet not in a selfish manner but for the benefit of those whom he or she serves, and ultimately to the glory of God.
—Keith Y. Jainga