It's what I call the look-at-me era, or look-at-us, if groups of people are too obsessed about themselves. They see nothing else more important. If they see someone doing good, they make everybody see how they're doing better. They want to have the last say when it comes to excellence. Mind you, the "need" to be seen and heard is very different when you just desperately "want" to be seen and heard.
Photo by kevin laminto on Unsplash.
You've probably seen the noticeable trend: people are more eager to be heard, seen, and acknowledged than to listen to others or empathize with their struggles. This phenomenon reflects the steady rise of self-centeredness and egotism, which has reached unprecedented levels in our age of social media, personal branding, and constant self-promotion.
"People will be lovers of themselves."
1. The Rise of Self-Centeredness and Egotism
Modern culture often celebrates individual achievement, personal success, and self-expression. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok encourage people to showcase their lives, accomplishments, and opinions. While self-expression is not inherently wrong, it has fostered a climate where validation from others becomes the ultimate goal.
- Achievements over empathy: Many people are more concerned with their own milestones—career promotions, material possessions, or social recognition—than with the struggles of those around them.
- Imagined greatness: Some individuals exaggerate their importance, presenting themselves as superior, even while pretending to be humble or selfless. They acknowledge others only to later highlight how they are “better” or “more accomplished.”
- Illusion of humility: This false humility is dangerous because it masks pride. People may appear to celebrate others but subtly redirect attention back to themselves.
This self-centeredness is not new; it has roots in human nature. However, the digital age has amplified it, making egotism more visible and socially acceptable. But don't get me wrong. Social media like FB can be platforms for encouraging others and noting their worth. A simple "like" thumbsup can do this but which a lot of people are very reluctant to give. God provided social media for building each other up, especially among churches of different denominations, and for looking out for the discouraged and unnoticed for moral support. This is why I often follow small and unpopular vloggers.
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2. The Biblical Perspective on Selflessness
The Bible consistently teaches that God delights in humility, service, and prioritizing others over oneself. Scripture warns against pride and self-exaltation, while celebrating those who genuinely care for others.
- Philippians 2:3–4: “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 the others.”
- Romans 12:10: “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
- Matthew 23:12: “For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
These passages remind us that God’s kingdom celebrates those who listen, empathize, and rejoice in the victories of others. True greatness is found not in self-promotion but in servant-hearted living.
3. Why Listening and Seeing Others Matters
When people focus only on themselves, they miss the richness of community and the beauty of shared victories. Listening to others’ concerns and celebrating their wins builds stronger relationships and reflects God’s love.
- Empathy heals: Listening to the “cry of others’ hearts” provides comfort and validation, reminding them they are not alone.
- Community strengthens faith: By prioritizing others, even those outside your church denomination, believers embody Christ’s command to love one another.
- Celebrating others glorifies God: When we rejoice in someone else’s success, we reflect God’s generosity and grace.
4. The Call to Counter Self-Centeredness
The challenge for Jesus believers today is to resist the cultural tide of egotism and embrace genuine humility. This means:
- Practicing active listening instead of dominating conversations.
- Celebrating others’ achievements without comparison.
- Serving quietly, without seeking recognition.
- Checking our motives—are we helping others to glorify God or to elevate ourselves?
Conclusion
The steady rise of self-centeredness and egotism reflects a world obsessed with self-image and personal validation. Yet, Scripture calls us to a radically different path: one of humility, low profile, empathy, and prioritizing others. God delights in those who listen to the cries of others, who celebrate victories not their own, and who live not for imagined greatness but for genuine service.
As Philippians 2:5 reminds us: “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.” Christ Himself modeled ultimate humility, laying down His life for others. Following His example, we are called to shift from being seen to truly seeing others, from being heard to truly hearing others.
From being seen to truly seeing others.
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NONJOINER discusses how you can quit joining the crowd and see how the bible helps you think independently to develop your unique person as God wants you to and develop an authentic social life.