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Serving Quote by Timothy Keller

“When you say, “I’ll serve, as long as I’m getting benefits from it,” that’s not actually serving people; it’s serving yourself through them. That’s not circling them, orbiting around them; it’s using them, getting them to orbit around you.” quote by Timothy Keller
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““When you say, “I’ll serve, as long as I’m getting benefits from it,” that’s not actually serving people; it’s serving yourself through them. That’s not circling them, orbiting around them; it’s using them, getting them to orbit around you.””

Timothy Keller

About This Quote

Source Sermon: “The Cost of Discipleship” by Timothy Keller, 2015

Serving others only for personal gain is selfish, not true service; it exploits people rather than honors them.

In simple terms: Selfish motives corrupt genuine service.

Key Takeaway

Serve without expecting personal benefit.

Themes

service selfishness ethics leadership

Mood

reflective serious

Type

ethical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • volunteering
  • leadership
  • team management
  • customer service

Key Concepts

altruism exploitation motivation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you ensure your actions benefit others, not just yourself?
  • What checks can prevent self‑serving motives?
A Different Perspective

True service requires humility and selflessness.

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