God is faithful to honor us when we selflessly serve others. John the Baptist said in John 3:30, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” A selfless life is built upon three Biblical principles:

• Self-denial
  
• Sacrifice
  
• Suffering

Self-denial is the attitude of selflessness. The verse above is the most concise and clear statement on the attitude and depth of self-denial for believers. The life of a believer is exactly like the sand of an hourglass. If Christ’s presence increases, then self’s presence must decrease. If self’s presence increases, then Christ’s presence will decrease. Self-denial is putting Christ first in everything beginning with our attitude. Paul writes in Philippians 2:5, “Make your attitude that of Christ Jesus.”

Sacrifice is the gift of selflessness. Sacrifice means I give something. There were different kinds of sacrifices in the Old Testament, but it always meant giving something. Paul in the New Testament talks about sacrifice in Romans 12:1, “Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, this is your spiritual worship.” What are we to give? Giving our “bodies” means our entire being. I am to give my time, abilities and resources to God. When I do, it is an act of worship to God each day.

Suffering is the cost of selflessness. A selfless life gives to the point that it cost him something. Paul says in Philippians 1:29, “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for Him.” What is the purpose of the suffering? Our suffering satisfies God. 1 Peter 2:20 says, “When you do good and suffer, if you endure, it brings favor with God.” Our suffering shapes us. Romans 8:28-29 says, “All things work together . . . to be conformed to the image of His Son.” Suffering strengthens the body. Paul said in Colossians 1:24, “Now I rejoice in my sufferings for you, and I am completing in my flesh what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for His body, that is, the church.” Our suffering also helps save the lost. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 1:6, “If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation.” Your sacrificial gift to Generations will cause God’s Kingdom to multiply.

This week I want you to do two things to demonstrate selflessness. First, we have received a request from officials on the coast that those living in tents and trailers need towels and wash clothes. I am asking every member of our church to bring a set next Sunday. I am also asking you to do something for someone which will you cost you something like paying for someone’s meal, clean their yard or other practical ways to show a selfless life. We have some cards for you to give when you serve someone else. The card has information about our church and a statement which says, “An expression of Jesus’ love for YOU from your friends at Colonial Heights.” Generations is about a selflessness.

Remember, our lives should be about others. Do something this week that costs you something for someone else.