Is being selfish a form of freedom?

For something to be selfish, it must be egotistical (doing something that benefits only oneself without regard to who else it may affect). This could be associated with independence, but independence and freedom are two different things. Independence is going on your own and not dependent upon other factors.

What do we have the freedom to do?

We have the freedom to gather for worship at the church or synagogue or temple of our choice. We have the freedom to elect a new president every four years. We have the freedom to select, it seems, from an unending variety of products that we would like to buy. And the list goes on.

How can we use Jesus as an example of freedom?

Jesus used his freedom to trust in the judgment of God. It’s a huge relief to know that the there is one who judges justly. And we can follow the example of Jesus who trusted himself, that is, he trusted every injury inflicted on him, and every insult made against him into the hands of God the Father.

How should we exercise our freedom in Christ?

Our freedom in Christ must be balanced by a desire to build up and benefit others. When deciding how to exercise our Christian freedom, we ought to seek the good of others before our own good. In Judaism, restrictions were placed on purchasing meats in the market. Jews could only buy and eat kosher meats.

How do you know if someone is selfish?

Selfish people are uncaring towards others Selfish people are uncaring and neglectful to other people’s needs. For example, if you open up your emotions to them, they may try to manipulate you to get what they want or make you feel guilty.

Is there such a thing as good selfishness?

In addition to bad selfishness and neutral selfishness, there is also what I call “good selfishness,” which benefits both ourselves and other people. Harry Browne refers to good selfishness as a two-sided transaction, an exchange where two people willingly part with something in order to gain something they value.

Are there selfish people in your life trying to manipulate you?

If there are selfish people in your life who are trying to manipulate you, then you simply have to learn to stand up for yourself. Because you do have a choice in the matter. One resource I highly recommend is Ideapod’s extremely powerful free masterclass on love and intimacy.