Too Much Self is Stupid!

Listen to this verse from 2 Corinthians 10:12, For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.

I highlighted the “selves”. Did you notice. This verse struck me between the eyes.

I have liked myself most of my life. I get proper sleep. I eat three squares a day. I rest. I play when I want to. I get satisfaction when someone notices my good efforts and when they send me birthday greetings on facebook. I think that I’m cute. Well, OK maybe not so cute any more. But ... ah forget it.

Self seems to play a major role in my life. I’ve heard the sermons titled, “It’s NOT about YOU!” and I know that the preacher had good intentions but he doesn't know me. If he did he might think that it was. About me that is.

MIKE! What are you babbling about? My word. You are being an IDIOT!!

That is EXACTLY what Paul is saying here. When we commend ourselves and think only about ourselves we’re being stupid. The greek word at the end of this verse means, “Not all put together”. Common colloquialisms might include, “his elevator doesn’t go to the top floor” or “One brick shy of a load” or “Got a screw loose” or “you fill in the blank”.

We compare ourselves with other drifting souls and we might look pretty good or pretty bad as the case might be. Paul says that this type of thinking is “ridiculous”. It is not wise. Its stupid.

So, if we turn this thing around what might it look like? Maybe like this:

Wise are those who compare themselves with Christ. When they measure themselves with Him, they’ll discover where they stand. They will begin to put others first and realize that this is what servants are supposed to do. Try that on for size and see what you think.

I still think that I’m cute.

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