Let's dive into a challenging topic today: overcoming an attitude of entitlement. In Philippians 2:3 (NIV), the Apostle Paul gives us this powerful instruction:

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves."

In our culture of self-promotion and instant gratification, it's so easy to fall into the trap of entitlement. We can start to subconsciously believe that we deserve certain privileges, experiences, or possessions because of who we are or what we've done.

This attitude is the complete opposite of Christ's heart. He emptied Himself of His divine rights out of love for us!

<aside> 💡 Key Point: Entitlement says, "I deserve this," while humility says, "I'm grateful for this."

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• Entitlement demands service, but humility finds joy in serving others.
• Entitlement feels cheated when it doesn't get what it wants; humility trusts God's wisdom in what it receives.
• Entitlement breeds discontentment; humility cultivates thankfulness.

When we view life through the lens of entitlement, we'll always find something to complain about. We'll be quick to make comparisons and resent other people's blessings. We'll feel perpetually underappreciated and shortchanged. But when we embrace the lens of humility, we'll find endless reasons to praise God.

We'll celebrate others' successes and find joy in honoring them. We'll be content in every situation, trusting that God is working all things together for our good.

Jesus modeled the ultimate attitude of humility when He left the glories of heaven to live as a man and die on a cross for our sins. Though He was the only person who was truly entitled to the riches of royalty, He chose the poverty of servanthood. Instead of coming to earth to receive attention, He came to serve others. He wasn't focused on defending His rights but on laying down His life.