Religion and Narcissism [Part 2]

Again, this is the opposite idea of Christ. In Christianity, in true and authentic Christ-following YOU DO NOTHING. The scriptural and biblical Christian has done absolutely nothing to achieve the salvation (or saving) of their soul (Ephesians 2:1-10, 1 Corinthians 6:11, Romans 9:16). Christ says, "take my yoke, it's easy." Why? Not because following him is easy (ironically it's more difficult than a bunch of works), but because he does all the work. What do we do? Our job is simply complex and easily difficult. We must put all of us into him (Mark 8:34-35). Not an ounce of ourselves can be kept in what we have done. We cannot serve ourselves, we must serve him, we cannot think of our good, but of his good. How does this flush out practically? In our neighbor. Since, theologically, Christ is in us, we are to love our neighbor, the second of the greatest commandment. There is no room for ourselves, because if we completely devote our lives to Christ, the puzzle piece fits, the pennies drop, and life is completely abundant. We are filled. None of the commandments of Christ speak of loving yourself, because this life is not about you. So, strangely, we are satisfied and growing when we put our desires on God and others. Then, if everyone is focused on others and God, don't you think you'll be alright?

I definitely do not think that searching for your own happiness is a sin. I believe God wants us to be happy, undoubtedly. However, when we speak of words like "joy" and "fulfillment" or "happiness," I believe we cannot reach the heights of joy and the depths of fulfillment without follow this Jesus revealed in the Bible.