“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:3-4)

Have you ever heard someone say that being self-conscious is a good thing? Usually, when we say we are self-conscious, we mean we are uncomfortable, nervous, or awkward. That’s because thinking too much about yourself leads to feeling bad.

Some people don’t like to talk in public, or they feel nervous around new people. At those times, they can become so self-conscious that they think of nothing but themselves. They don’t just focus on themselves; they focus on a specific part of themselves. They may focus on the fact that their palms are sweaty, their stomach has butterflies, or their mouth is dry. They may think, “people can hear it in my voice that I am nervous,” or “I hate blushing!”

The verse above tells us the solution to this problem. When we are too self-conscious, we should work on being more aware of others and less aware of ourselves. I know a pastor who used to be very nervous when he preached. He threw up before most sermons. He used to pray a self-conscious prayer: “Lord, don’t let me make a fool of myself.” He changed that prayer to one focused on others: “Lord, if I make a fool of myself, use it to point others to you.” He actually likes Sunday mornings now.

If you have ever felt too self-conscious, Jesus wants you to know he is ready and able to take the focus off you and put it on him. He can be your strength when you feel weak. Focus on him and on how you can help others, and he can give you the blessing of self-forgetfulness.

Question: When do you notice yourself thinking the most about how you look, sound, or are being judged?

Prayer: Jesus, when we feel nervous or awkward, turn our eyes away from ourselves and toward you. Help us care for others instead of worrying about how we are doing. Be our strength when we feel weak. Amen.