Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. (Philippians 2:4)
A couple of years ago, TIME.com came up with an article with the title, “The Secret to Happiness.” It is obviously an intriguing one which I ended up clicking and reading.
In the article, it gives us very interesting research to consider:
“Scientific research provides compelling data to support the anecdotal evidence that giving is a powerful pathway to personal growth and lasting happiness. Through fMRI technology, we now know that giving activates the same parts of the brain that are stimulated by food and sex. Experiments show evidence that altruism is hardwired in the brain—and it’s pleasurable. Helping others may just be the secret to living a life that is not only happier but also healthier, wealthier, more productive, and meaningful.”
What scientific research reveal to us only validates what Scripture articulates. Paul the apostle tells us to not look only to our own interests but also to the interests of others.
A Chinese saying goes like this…
“If you want happiness for an hour, take a nap.
If you want happiness for a day, go fishing.
If you want happiness for a year, inherit a fortune.
If you want happiness for a lifetime, help somebody.”
Genuine joy is found not in getting what we want but in helping others get what they need. St. Francis of Assisi was quoted saying, “For it is in giving that we receive.”
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the truth of Your Word. I am grateful that Your Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. I repent for being selfish and thinking only about myself. Teach me to choose others and not just prefer myself. The easiest thing to do is to want what’s best for me. Your Son Jesus gave sacrificially and selflessly placed others before Himself – for in that, we found our salvation. In Jesus’ name. AMEN.
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