Yesterday in cleaning out files, I found this “editorial” on 3 year olds. It was written tongue in cheek to help rest a parent’s anxiety those times that their child would not share with other children. Here is the sheet that I found….
Having been working in the church nursery, I laughed, thinking, “I have seen this behavior exhibited for sure, by 3 year olds.”
Why as parents do we stress at our children’s lack of sharing with others? Why do we think that it will always come easily & quickly with them? It is nothing short of our fallen nature being displayed. If children become generous of heart & share with their playmates, it is because they are taught to do so.
Then I thought, “Heck, who says it is only 3 year olds? I have seen some adults exhibit this same thought process at times.” Before you are argue that one, ask yourself:
Have you never seen:
- a stingy adult?
- an adult rushing to be first to the checkout in a supermarket?
- an adult unwilling to share the last candy bar?
- an adult unwilling to give of themselves to another?
- a co-worker stepping on others for a raise?
Basically it is that same mindset. Perhaps that is why, Paul reminds us in Philippians 2:3-4:
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” (NIV).
Or how about worded like this:
“Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.” (NLT).
Better yet:
 “When you do things, do not let selfishness or pride be your guide. Instead, be humble and give more honor to others than to yourselves. Do not be interested only in your own life, but be interested in the lives of others.” (NCV)
Or:
“Don’t push your way to the front; don’t sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don’t be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.” (The Message).
Ouch!
Today may I put aside my childish behavior & think of others.
