The word “pride” seems to be closely connected to those who are arrogant or who have an unreasonably elevated opinion or value of themselves. It presents a picture in our minds of one who looks down on others with an attitude of superiority or condescension. Often, we look at those who we consider “full of pride” as also being “full of themselves and their abilities.” They cannot see God as the giver of each and every gift they have. In Hebrew, it comes from a word meaning “to boil” and when water boils, we know it cannot be contained without problems.
A person of “humility” is one who is seen as being submissive to authority, compliant and willing to listen, observe and learn. A humble person does not attempt to keep others from being recognized or rewarded for what they have accomplished. Their modesty gives God the credit for what He has done through them. And they also understand that all things come from God and, in all reality, belong to Him.
Is it any wonder, then, that Solomon says, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace; but with humility comes wisdom.” If we see ourselves as being above and beyond others, as possessing more ability and knowledge than others, more of anything and everything than others, where will we find room for growth and what is our need for wisdom - especially God’s wisdom. We “have it all together.” No wonder the proud end up in disgrace.
But the humble? They are open, honest, able and willing to recognize their need for God and His wisdom.
Prayer: Help us, Father, to realize our limitations and failures and to depend on You to fill our need for wisdom. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture for Today: Proverbs 11:2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.
No comments:
Post a Comment