There is something about the human condition that causes us to want to promote ourselves and make ourselves look better than others. That something is called pride. It resides, to some extent, within every human heart.
The bible tells us:
“Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard others as more important than yourselves.” (Philippians 2:3)
However, as clear as that is, there is something in us that wants to prove to others that we are better, or more important than they are. Exaggeration and caricature are often great ways of depicting sin issues and the following video from Brian Regan does a great job of exposing the ugliness of “The Me Monster”:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRdjDTMSTtY[/youtube]
Do you ever find yourself trying to top someone else’s story? Do you ever notice yourself trying to posture yourself so that you impress others? The Apostle Paul says:
“We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise.” (2 Corinthians 10:12)
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THNPmhBl-8I[/youtube]
Next time you have the opportunity, find a way to encourage others and build them up, rather than tearing them down to make yourself look better. Follow the way of Jesus!
Israel Wayne is an Author and Conference Speaker who serves the Lord through Wisdom’s Gate Ministries.
Love this. So true. And just when we think we have the pride thing mastered, there goes humility right out the window:)
Excellent post. We do well to be reminded about the Me monster. Whether we admit it or not, we have the tendency for self promotion most days.
This is a post that never gets old because pride is something that more or less we all have. Moreover, pride is the root of every other sin. Lucifer fell from his pride, wanting to put himself above God, and it is that pride that keeps him from ever repenting and returning to where he was. Pride’s worst consequence is the fact that it doesn’t let us humble ourselves before God — it prevent us from repenting; therefore, can hinder our salvation. We all have pride, but if we give it to the Lord in sincere confession, He will help us keep it under control. May we ask Him today for a humble and sincere spirit…