Why is self-love the measure for loving others in Christianity?

In the Christian context, self-love serves as a natural guideline for how we interact with others. Jesus teaches us to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:39), indicating that our innate sense of what we desire for our own well-being should inform how we treat others. This principle invites us to reflect on our actions towards others based on the love we wish to receive. Genuine concern for others should stem from our recognition of their shared human dignity and value, echoing the commandment to love God first and foremost.