Where You Lead

Who’s Number Two?

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.

Philippians 2:3-4

When I was in grade school, maybe 6th or 7th grade, I read the book “I Am Third” by Gayle Sayers autobiography focusing on his friendship with Brian Piccolo, both professional football players. Not only did the story of these two wonderful men stay with me, but the thought that God is first, my brother is second and I am third left a huge impact on me.

I work very hard every day to make God first in my life. I pray when I wake up and I pray at night before I fall asleep. I pray throughout the day. I make a point of remember God in just about everything I do. And yet I am selfish. Yes, I am.

I have every intention of putting others first and often I do. I’m a mother, after all, and our nature is to tend to our families. The thing is, I hear a lot about “take care of yourself” or no one else will. Or that there’s nothing wrong with a little “me time.” And I buy into that. Why not? It feels good to take care of myself. It’s wonderful when I spend the time and money on special pampering.

I guess the question is, Does it feel as wonderful as when God takes care of me? Is a pedicure as relaxing as God’s love and comfort? No matter what I do for myself, is any of it better than when God does for me? The answer, of course, is no.

I don’t need to put myself or my needs ahead of my family’s or anyone else’s. God tells me to put Him first, to put others second. God tells me that I am third. I know from experience that when I put myself last, He will take care of me better than I can take care of myself.

I must recommit myself to my family, friends and community. I must remember that the only pampering I need is the loving comfort of God.