Pride

Pride is one of the most difficult things to overcome as a Christian. I have been thinking about it a lot lately. I was reminded again last week when I read Daniel 4 about why I need to let go of my pride. The last verse in Daniel 4 says, ". . .and those who walk in pride he is able to humble."

If you are familiar with some of the Bible stories when God teaches humility, it is not a pretty sight. King Nebuchadnezzar was sent to live in the wild to eat grass with the cattle. There are some lessons that I would like to figure out by learning from others mistakes.

Pride can ruin relationships, pride can destroy us. I came across a poem in Beth Moore's book, Further Still that is titled "My Name is Pride". It is a perfect example of what pride can do to us.

My name is Pride

I cheat you of your God-given destiny. . .

because you demand your own way.

I cheat you of contentment. . .

because you "deserve better than this."

I cheat you of knowledge. . .

because you already know it all.

I cheat you of healing. . .

because you're too full of me to forgive.

I cheat you of holiness. . .

because you refuse to admit when you're wrong.

I cheat you of vision. . .

because you'd rather look in the mirror than out the window.

I cheat you of genuine friendship. . .

because nobody's going to know the real you.

I cheat you of love. . .

because real romance demands sacrifice.

I cheat you of greatness in Heaven. . .

because you refuse to wash another's feet on earth.

I cheat you of God's glory. . .

because I convince you to seek your own.

My name is Pride. I am a cheater.

You like me because you think I'm always looking out for you. Untrue.

I'm looking to make a fool of you. God has so much for you, I admit, but don't worry

if you stick with me

you'll never know.

Did this poem strike a nerve with you. I know it did me. How often does pride prevent us from accomplishing God's purpose in our lives? When we are broken what prevents us from asking all those that surround us to cover us in prayer? More often than not, it is our pride.

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