Pride

August 11th – 1Corinthians 13:4-5

1 Corinthians 13:4-5

Loving one another doesn’t always come easy. And some days, it doesn’t come at all. And although no one can love as unconditionally and perfectly like Jesus, still we are called to love like Him just the same. But what is Christlike love? Contrary to popular culture, it isn’t butterflies in the stomach, or a sappy song on the radio. Genuine, Christlike love isn’t found in a feeling. Rather it’s found in the way we treat others. Each time we show patience, kindness, and goodness to another, we are loving them the way Jesus does. Christlike love isn’t envious of another’s blessings or based in arrogance and pride. It doesn’t intentionally hurt others, nor keep a scorecard of another’s past mistakes. Instead it demonstrates it’s deep love for God by obediently loving others not in words, but in godly deeds.

August 11th – 1Corinthians 13:4-5 Read More »

May 26th – 2 Corinthians 10:4

2 Corinthians 10:4

The Bible describes a stronghold as a belief which is strongly defended or upheld. They are formed from the lies and deception of the Enemy. And one such stronghold is self importance. Everybody wants to be seen, known, and loved. And we live in a world that values self importance. But as Solomon so famously cautioned, pride goes before a fall. Look at Satan. Because he wanted to be like God he rebelled against his Creator. And it was ego that he used to cause Adam and Eve to fall, tempting them with the thought of being more like God. Throughout the Bible, we are warned against the love of self. For God is the only One who deserves our worship. And if we let Him, through His power we can break down all wrong thinking and sinful barriers.

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May 17th – 2 Chronicles 2:16

2 Chronicles 2:16

When Uzziah became king of Judah, he was only 16 years old. And during his 52 year reign, through the power of God, Uzziah did amazing things. But when Uzziah let his fame go to his head, he learned how far the proud fall before the Lord. Thinking himself all powerful, Uzziah ignorantly decided he didn’t need to follow God’s laws. And in response, God struck the arrogant king with leprosy. Shunned, all alone, and banned from God’s temple, the once mighty ruler died alone. We would do good to remember the only power we have in this world is what is given to us through God. And He alone deserves all the glory. Because only through Him are we able to accomplish anything good and lasting. And in humility, we are to use the gifts He gives us not to increase our pride, but His kingdom.

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February 26th – Psalm 32:9

Psalm 32:9

English author Neil Gaiman once said, “There’s none so blind as those who will not listen.” An opinion shared by God. For He warns us against being stubborn like a mule or an untamed horse; only coming near when forced. Such animals need a bridle and bit because they fight against the training of their masters. God doesn’t want us battling against His instructions. Instead He wants His people to come Him willingly, joyfully, and eager for His guidance. Our Father always knows best, and His will and ways are perfect. So instead of running away in stubborn disobedience, we should be drawing near to the One who cares for us most. For His eye is always upon us and He will lead us in the perfect direction in which we should go.

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March 25th – Proverbs 18:12

Proverbs 18:12

We’ve all heard the expression, “pride goes before a fall.” And we need look no further than Satan to see just how far we can fall. Once one of God’s most beautiful creations, a heart of pride caused the devil to rebel against his Creator, leading to his banishment and eventual destruction. And a self serving heart can take us down the same dark path. For God loves nothing more than humility, as exampled in the life and death of Jesus. And as a fruit of the Spirit, humility keeps our hearts focused on God and others, allows us to be shining reflections of the Lord, and keeps us walking in obedience to God.

March 25th – Proverbs 18:12 Read More »