I think it’s easy to latch onto these acronyms like JOY or WWJD and give them too much weight. They are simplistic reminders that do not come from Scriptures, though Scriptures probably inspired them. They are written and promoted by fallible humans and probably make someone a lot of money on T-shirts and other print on demand products.

I don’t think being self-aware is the same thing as being selfish. We need to know ourselves. Knowing ourselves can keep us out of trouble. Example: God spent a lot of time teaching me to stay away from anything occult in nature, and that includes trying to befriend those who were involved in occult activities. That includes witnessing to them. He made it quite clear that ministry to those involved in occult practices is a ministry for others — not me. I know my own weakness in that area and just as an alcoholic must stay away from alcohol that others may safely drink, I need to stay away from the occult in any form. I’m allowed to write about my experiences in a way that would honor God and his protection. God has given me self-awareness in this area to protect me.

Being self-aware helps us to know our weaknesses and our strengths so that we may better serve. Before we can do unto others what we would like them to do unto us we must know how we would like others to treat us. Scriptures and Christian slogans are not equal authorities for our lives.