ME AND MINE

'Selfishness' is the common denominator of all who refuse to be humbled by their lost condition and their need for a Savior. The unregenerate mind is egocentric by nature ... distinguished by a 'me and mine' attitude. 

Christians are told to leave that worldly character trait behind ...  

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others. Philippians 2:3-4

I find it compelling that Scripture lists 'selfishness' with what we might consider more serious transgressions ... 

Now the works of the flesh are revealed, which are these: adultery, sexual immorality, impurity, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, strife, jealousy, rage, selfishness, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, carousing, and the like. I warn you, as I previously warned you, that those who do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.  Galatians 5:19-21

The 'what's in it for me' existence is often expressed by building up oneself by the tearing down of others. It is only through genuine humility that this 'self-idolization' can be conquered. A true relationship with God comes from an unpretentious heart that knows Him as Lord. 

Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. Romans 12:3

If you live with a 'me first' constitution, that arrogant narcissistic comportment can prevent you from recognizing it as a sin. Where egotism exists, prayer becomes a worthless exercise ... You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions. James 4:3

Spurgeon - When a man so prays he asks God to be his servant and gratify his desires; nay, worse than that, he wants God to join him in the service of his lusts. Such prayer is blasphemous, but a large quantity of it is offered, and it must be one of the most God-provoking things that heaven ever beholds.

We are to seek the Lord on every step of our faith journey so that the Gospel of Jesus Christ is not misrepresented. David's prayer should be our prayer ... 

Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain. Psalm 119:36