We live by the assumption that what's good for us is good for the world. And this is based on the even flimsier assumption that we could know with any certainty what's good for us.

Life Applications

Commentary

This quote challenges the assumption that our self-interest aligns with the greater good, highlighting the uncertainty of knowing what truly benefits us and the world. It prompts reflection on the ethical implications of our actions and decisions.

Paraphrase

We often assume what benefits us is beneficial for the world, based on the flimsy belief that we can be certain of what truly benefits us.

Poem

We assume our gain is the world's bane,
certainty's flimsy,
our impact,
not tame.

Presentation Suggestions

• Explore the ethical implications of self-interest and its impact on the world.
• Discuss the uncertainty of knowing what truly benefits us and the world.
• Examine the consequences of assuming our self-interest aligns with the greater good.
• Encourage reflection on the flimsiness of certainty in determining what's good for us and the world.
• Highlight the importance of considering the broader impact of our actions on the world.

Related Bible Verses

Proverbs 3:5

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding;

1 Corinthians 10:24

No one should seek his own good, but the good of others.

Philippians 2:4

Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Galatians 6:4

Each one should test his own work. Then he will have reason to boast in himself alone, and not in someone else.

Romans 12:2

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.

The Holy Bible, Berean Standard Bible, BSB is produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free resources and databases are available at BereanBible.com

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

• How does our assumption of what's good for us impact our decisions?
• What are the ethical dilemmas arising from assuming our self-interest aligns with the world's good?
• How can we navigate the uncertainty of knowing what truly benefits us and the world?
• What are the consequences of basing our actions on flimsy assumptions?
• In what ways do our beliefs about what's good for us influence our understanding of the world?
• How does this quote challenge traditional notions of self-interest?
• In what ways can uncertainty about what's good for us affect our decision-making?