The Story

Sin places the self at the center of the story. We may never say, 'Everything must be about me,' but our hearts often live that way. We want others to understand us, agree with us, and make our lives easier. When the heart builds its own little kingdom, discontent grows quickly. Another person's words wound us too easily, our desires become larger than love, and being right becomes more important than humility. The Bible begins with God, not with us. He created all things, rules all things, and deserves all glory. The cross of Christ does not only comfort us; it destroys our misplaced loyalty to self. Jesus rescues us from slavery to ourselves. He forgives us and changes the direction of our hearts, so that life no longer has to revolve around us. In him, we learn to love God, obey him, and love others. Prayer Father, center of all things, I praise you because my life comes from you and exists for your glory. Forgive me for building my own little kingdom and demanding that others serve my desires. Thank you for Jesus Christ, who died to destroy the idol of self. Holy Spirit, teach me humility and love. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.