Other-Centeredness
2020 2nd Quarter Newsletter
I was speaking at an academic conference on the subject of the role of followers relating to their direct reports. During the presentation, I introduced the concept of ‘other-centeredness’ as a key to understanding others and avoiding conflict. After the presentation, one of the prominent educators in the field of leadership studies noted that he had not heard of such a term. He went on to say that this concept held great promise for establishing positive relationships among those in the workplace. I was grateful for his comment because apparently thinking of others was an idea that, at that time, had not been discussed much among these academics.
However, for those of us who are followers of Christ, the idea of seeking to meet the needs of others is a common theme within the Scriptures. Perhaps such teaching had not been conceptualized in the term, “other- cenderedness,” but the teaching and ideas are certainly present. For instance, when Jesus teaches the ‘Golden Rule’ in Matthew 7:12, He is speaking of ‘other-centeredness.’ How else can we “do unto others” if we are not focused on their wellbeing and benefit? The Apostle Paul takes up this same idea when he teaches, “Do nothing from selfishness of empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others” (Philippians 2:3-4 NASB). Here is a clear directive to put self-centeredness aside and focus on others. This is the key point in ‘other-centeredness.’ These are just a couple of examples of this theme that is prevalent throughout the Scriptures.
Yet, if seeking the benefit of others is key to living in harmony with others, why is it so difficult to practice? There may be many different reasons why. However, I believe the primary underlying cause is that it is much easier to focus on self. James speaks to this when he points out that the cause of conflicts is our own personal desires (James 1:1). Our environments are permeated with a focus on self. We are immersed in an advertising culture that focuses attention on getting what YOU want and DESERVE. Add to this, our own sinful thought patterns tempt us to focus only on our needs, our wants, our lives.
With these challenges before us, how can we truly be other centered? The scriptures are clear that the primary ‘other’ for whom we should be concerned is our Heavenly Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. When Christ is “preeminent” (Colossians 1: 15-20), our lives become ordered. We humble ourselves before Him and discipline our thinking in the power of the Holy Spirit to act in ways that bring Him glory and honor. When ‘self’ finds its rightful place of submission before the Lord, we cannot help but bask in his love and allow that love to act in ways that benefit others. With Christ as our focus, our center, we are free to practice ‘other-centeredness.’
CATCH: The Game Everyone Can Play
Want a practical way to share ‘other-centeredness’ on the job? Read my newest book, CATCH. It is a story that teaches how a Christ-centered life can influence others in the workplace. One business owner told me that the principles presented were the exact values and principles he would like to see implemented in his business. CATCH is available on Amazon. When you have read it, let me know what you think!
Thank You!
Sharon and I want to thank you all for you prayers and support. These have certainly been trying times. Our prayer is that you and your family are well and beginning to get back out and enjoy worshipping and fellowshipping together. Social distancing certainly threw a wrench in my speaking engagements. I was, however, able to preach at Grace Baptist here in Cumming via Facebook live. It was quite interesting because there were only a handful of people present. As churches open up, I am hoping for more opportunities this summer. I will be preaching at Zion Baptist Church in Conyers, GA June 14th, and I have a leadership seminar scheduled for October in North Carolina. Lately most of my ministry has consisted of contacting and encouraging my followerfirst pastors and encouraging them as well as continuing to teach my students at Luther Rice. Our family is doing well. Lyndsay and Lowrey were the hardest hit by the shutdown. When your income is dependent on film and theaters, there is no income coming in when the theaters and film studios are shut down. To their credit, they are great money managers and had an emergency fund ready. They are also working as shuttle drivers for those who HAVE to get to medical appointments, and this helps fill in the gaps. Rush and Claire, on the other hand, were less financially impacted. Claire finished the school year teaching online, and Rush’s business was designated as ‘essential’ so they never closed and continue to grow. Sharon continues to minister through her essential oil business and has branched out into toxin free skin care and makeup as well. We celebrated 36 years of marriage June 8th and continue to love and enjoy meeting the challenges of life together! We are blessed, and you all are a special part of that blessing.