UNPACK this...Struggling With SelfishnessSample

It's Not About Me

As each new NFL season begins, we hear about the big contracts players sign, the rookies expected to contribute, and the guys looking to take the next step into stardom. We debate who is the best at each position and decide which players we want on our Fantasy team.

With so much emphasis on individual players, athletes easily become me-focused and make it all about themselves. They want to make sure they get paid bonuses, avoid big hits, keep their roster spot or starting position, and get the accolades they feel they deserve. Many guys also want the attention and fanfare to land marketing or media deals to expand their earning potential.   

Those things aren’t necessarily bad, but with 53 guys contributing to success on the field, football is one of the most team-oriented sports. When players become selfish and driven by their individual accomplishments, winning becomes very difficult. 

Issues often arise when players are more focused on getting their touches and being the one to score, rather than being concerned with the team’s goals. However, when teams are filled with selfless players who desire to sacrifice for their teammates so something greater can be accomplished, they're the ones holding up the trophy at the end of the year. 

When looking at our own lives, selfishness is all around us...starting with the person in the mirror. We’re often out for ourselves, extremely self-centered, and enjoy when people give us attention and accolades.

However, the Bible tells us in 1 Corinthians 10:24, “No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.” 

These words encourage us to humbly live out our lives by pursuing others, compassionately caring for them, and recognizing the need to get over ourselves. 

As we watch each NFL season, let’s take notice of the teams filled with selfless players and be reminded to focus less on our own daily selfish desires.

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, forgive me for my selfish ways and for not always valuing others more than myself. Please help me to recognize the areas that I need to surrender so that I can be more aware of the well-being of others. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.