In marriage, selfishness can erode trust and intimacy. Understanding and addressing selfish behavior is crucial for a healthy relationship. The Bible offers guidance on selflessness and its importance in marriage.
The collection of Bible verses about selfishness in marriage listed below help illuminate the harm of selfishness and the value of selfless love. By reflecting on these teachings, couples can nurture a more loving and respectful union.
Bible Verses About Selfishness in Marriage
#1. 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.”
This verse from Philippians underscores the foundational principle of selflessness in marriage. It admonishes against actions driven by selfish ambition or conceit, urging a mindset of humility that prioritizes the needs and concerns of one’s spouse. By esteeming the well-being of their partner as equal to their own, couples cultivate a relationship based on mutual respect and care, fostering a deep bond of love and understanding.
#2. Ephesians 5:25
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”
Ephesians 5:25 presents a powerful analogy, comparing the sacrificial love husbands are called to demonstrate to the love Christ has for the church. This verse challenges husbands to emulate Christ’s selfless devotion, willing to sacrifice their own desires and needs for the sake of their wives. It emphasizes that genuine love in marriage involves a willingness to give of oneself completely, mirroring the profound love and sacrifice exemplified by Christ’s relationship with the church.
#3. 1 Corinthians 13:5
“[Love] does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
1 Corinthians 13:5, part of the renowned “Love Chapter,” provides a comprehensive description of love’s characteristics, highlighting its selfless nature. This verse teaches that true love is not self-centered or focused on personal gain, but rather seeks the good of others. It emphasizes that love is patient and forgiving, showing that selfishness has no place in a loving marriage where each partner seeks the well-being and happiness of the other.
#4. Galatians 5:13
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”
In Galatians 5:13, Paul addresses the balance between freedom and responsibility within the context of marriage. While believers are called to freedom, they are cautioned against using this freedom as a license for selfishness. Instead, they are encouraged to serve one another in humility and love, recognizing that true freedom is found in selfless service and consideration for others. This verse emphasizes that a healthy marriage requires a commitment to putting the needs and desires of one’s spouse before one’s own.
#5. Colossians 3:19
“Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.”
Colossians 3:19 provides a clear directive to husbands regarding their behavior towards their wives. It instructs husbands to love their wives actively and consistently, showing kindness and patience rather than harshness. This verse reminds husbands that selfishness can manifest in unkind and hurtful actions, emphasizing the importance of treating one’s spouse with gentleness and respect.
#6. 1 Peter 3:7
“Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.”
1 Peter 3:7 highlights the importance of husbands treating their wives with consideration and respect. It emphasizes the equal standing of husbands and wives as heirs of God’s grace, urging husbands to honor their wives’ role and value in the marriage. This verse suggests that selfishness can hinder the effectiveness of one’s prayers, underscoring the need for mutual respect and care in marriage.
#7. James 3:16
“For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.”
James 3:16 warns against the destructive nature of selfishness and envy within relationships. It highlights how selfish ambition can lead to disorder and harmful behavior. This verse serves as a reminder of the negative consequences of prioritizing one’s own desires over the well-being of others, urging individuals to cultivate a spirit of selflessness and humility in their interactions.
#8. Proverbs 18:1
“An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends and against all sound judgment starts quarrels.”
Proverbs 18:1 warns against the folly of selfishness, noting that it can lead to isolation and conflict. It suggests that selfish behavior is contrary to sound judgment, often resulting in unnecessary quarrels and discord. This verse encourages individuals to seek harmony and understanding in their relationships by avoiding self-centered attitudes and actions.
#9. Proverbs 28:25
“The greedy stir up conflict, but those who trust in the LORD will prosper.”
Proverbs 28:25 contrasts the outcomes of selfishness and trust in the Lord. It suggests that selfishness, characterized by greed and a desire for more, can lead to conflict and unrest. In contrast, trusting in the Lord and following His ways can lead to prosperity and peace. This verse highlights the importance of trusting in God’s provision rather than selfishly seeking personal gain.
#10. Mark 10:45
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Mark 10:45 exemplifies the ultimate act of selflessness in the life of Jesus Christ. It highlights Jesus’ mission to serve others and sacrifice Himself for the salvation of humanity. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the selfless love and servant attitude that should characterize Christian marriages, inspiring couples to emulate Christ’s example in their relationships.
#11. Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
Romans 12:10 instructs believers to prioritize love and honor in their relationships. It emphasizes the importance of selflessness, encouraging individuals to put the needs and desires of others before their own. This verse challenges couples to cultivate a deep sense of devotion and respect for each other, fostering a strong and loving bond in marriage.
#12. 1 John 3:16-18
“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”
1 John 3:16-18 provides a powerful illustration of selfless love, drawing a parallel between Christ’s sacrifice and the love believers should have for one another. It challenges individuals to demonstrate their love not just in words, but through tangible actions that benefit others. This passage emphasizes the importance of selfless giving and serving in marriage, urging couples to show their love through sacrificial actions.
#13. Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
Galatians 6:2 encourages believers to support and help one another, bearing each other’s burdens. This verse emphasizes the importance of empathy and selflessness in relationships, highlighting the fulfillment of Christ’s command to love one another through acts of kindness and support. In marriage, this verse teaches couples to share in each other’s joys and sorrows, demonstrating a selfless and caring attitude.
#14. 1 Corinthians 10:24
“No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.”
1 Corinthians 10:24 challenges individuals to prioritize the well-being of others over their own desires. It emphasizes the importance of selflessness in all aspects of life, including marriage. This verse encourages couples to consider the impact of their actions on their spouse and to seek their partner’s good above their own, fostering a relationship built on mutual care and concern.
#15. Philippians 2:21
“For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.”
Philippians 2:21 contrasts selfishness with selflessness, highlighting the tendency of individuals to prioritize their own interests over the interests of others. This verse encourages believers to adopt a mindset focused on serving Christ by serving others. In marriage, this verse reminds couples to resist selfishness and to strive for a relationship characterized by selfless love and mutual respect.
Closing Thoughts
Selfishness is a common challenge in marriage, but the Bible offers timeless wisdom on the importance of selflessness and love. These verses remind us to prioritize the needs of our spouses, showing kindness, respect, and sacrificial love. By following these teachings, couples can nurture a strong, loving relationship that reflects the selfless love of Christ. May these verses inspire and guide you in your marriage, helping you build a bond that is rooted in love, respect, and mutual care.