From the beginning of human existence, self-centeredness has been the central problem causing relational distress and dissolution. Whether it be between people and God, a man and his wife, parents and their children, within the extended family, or in all social and political relationships, self-centeredness is the chief culprit causing so much anger, pain, suffering, and even death by conflict.
This is also evident in the Bible, for in the account of Adam and Eve in the garden, they succumbed to the temptation to gain for themselves and set aside God's counsel. The portrait is not just of one couple but of all succeeding generations. And here we are!
My wife and I have done counseling and pastoral work for over fifty years, and this has always been the problem with the people we have seen. Letters to His Children is written to examine this problem more intensely, see what the causes are for this, and offer solutions that lead to happiness and fulfillment in all these relationships. This book is set in a series of letters answering questions asked by His children over the decades.
Jesus made it clear that one cannot even follow Him, or even be a disciple unless that person denies himself. (Matthew 16:44; Luke 14:26) In His case, he said that He, "...came to serve, not to be served, and to give His life as a ransom for many. He commands that people, especially His people do the same. Serve others, not serve self. The apostle Paul said clearly, "Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility consider one another as more important than yourselves..." (Philippians 2:3)
Why this works to build relationships and fulfill our innermost desires for happiness is discussed in this book. The outline and focus are: "Faith," "Hope" and "Love;" what these are, what it means to have them as treasured virtues in one's life, and how they can bring the reality of them all into one's life.
