The "I" of Pride

Read

Proverbs 16:18, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”

Think

Pride is constantly living with a first-person perspective, which makes sense because you can’t say the word “pride” without saying “I.” Ironically, we often recognize pride in the lives of others, while being completely blind to its presence in our own. But whether we want to admit it or not, we all deal with pride.There is absolutely no “up” side to pride. It’s deadly in all of its manifestations, and it’s the primary stumbling block for overcoming dysfunction. When pride is present in our lives, we can expect trouble, frustration, and isolation. Why? Because pride pushes us from others and distances us from God!Conversely, humility draws us closer – to others and to God. Simply put, humility is not thinking less of ourselves; it’s thinking of ourselves less.Today’s verse makes it abundantly clear that if we refuse to humble ourselves before God, He will humble us. But that’s not what He wants. He wants us to appreciate His workmanship, surrender to His power, and remember that our ability and opportunity to achieve comes primarily from Him.Genuine satisfaction, joy, and peace come from seeing ourselves the way God sees us – nothing more, and nothing less. Therefore, today, choose to walk in humility before God by obeying Him and serving others.

Act

To help you see yourself more accurately, take a “sin-ventory.” Write out your sins, confess them, and ask God to reveal any blind spots that are hindering you spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and relationally.

Pray

Lord, I know that I can be arrogant and self-seeking. Today, help me to recognize my prideful tendencies and place the needs of others before my own. Thank You for always having my best interest in mind. In Jesus’ name, Amen.