The problem with pride is that it causes us to think more highly of ourselves than we should. The bible gives some clear direction dealing with a few things that can cause us to be puffed up.
Jeremiah 9:23-24…This is what the Lord says: “Don’t let the wise boast in their wisdom, or the powerful boast in their power, or the rich boast in their riches. 24 But those who wish to boast should boast in this alone: that they truly know me and understand that I am the Lord who demonstrates unfailing love and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth, and that I delight in these things. I, the Lord, have spoken!
We should not boast nor trust in our credentials, our positions, or our wealth. We should boast in the Lord and have confidence in his unfailing love towards us.
Here are a few quick reminders to help us stay grounded and humble:
To The Wise
Romans 12:2…Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. (NLT)
It is a noble thing to gain wisdom or pursue knowledge, but increasing your mind is a vain pursuit if we don’t also grow in an understanding of God’s purposes.
To The Mighty
Acts 1:8…But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (ESV)
Power is given for the purpose of being a witness of God’s redemptive love. The power we believe we have because of a title, position, or popularity is only contrived. Those are only platforms that can easily be taken away. Power originates with God and is sustained by God.
To The Rich
Mark 10:17-25… As Jesus was starting out on his way to Jerusalem, a man came running up to him, knelt down, and asked, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” “Why do you call me good?” Jesus asked. “Only God is truly good. 19 But to answer your question, you know the commandments: ‘You must not murder. You must not commit adultery. You must not steal. You must not testify falsely. You must not cheat anyone. Honor your father and mother.’]” “Teacher,” the man replied, “I’ve obeyed all these commandments since I was young.” Looking at the man, Jesus felt genuine love for him. “There is still one thing you haven’t done,” he told him. “Go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” At this the man’s face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions. Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the Kingdom of God!” 24 This amazed them. But Jesus said again, “Dear children, it is very hardto enter the Kingdom of God. 25 In fact, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God!” (NLT)
Having great wealth can give us a false sense of security. It can cause us to believe that we can take care of all our needs and our family’s needs. However, there are many things that money cannot but. Not the least of which is our place in heaven. We will only see heaven if we have believed in Christ and repented of our sins.
The purchase in this instance was made for us and not by us. Jesus ransomed us from the pits of hell by giving his life.
Those who are proud think more highly of themselves than they should and ultimately have no need for God. If you have no need for God you will never become the person that God intends for you to be.
Surrender all that you are and all that you have to God.
Written by Larry Westfall. Copyright © Finding Wonder 2013.
