Pride
(S) Scripture
So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall!
1 Corinthians 10:12 (NIV)
(O) Observation
Paul is using some illustrations from the Old Testament to warn the people about pride. He tells the Corinthians that these things happened as examples for them. He then gives this warning about pride, "So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall!"
(A) Application
My grandfather used to say, "If you ride a high saddle you have a long way to fall." It was his warning about the dangers of pride. He was not and the scripture is not talking about a pride that drives me to excellence but rather one that puts my nose in the air as better than others. It is the "snooty" pride that leads to a fall. I must admit that I have taken some sinful delight, for which I have confessed, in the fall of some high and mighty politicians in the past. Those who have set themselves up as better and higher and "the laws don't apply to me", when exposed the crash is great. I know pastors who call themselves "God's anointed" and dare anyone to challenge their authority or instructions. Many times this authoritarian rule is used to cover their personal sin and immoral behavior. The illustrations are many from both politics and the religious world. In my life I must never let pride separate me from the people I am called to serve. The only place where I can boast is in the cross of Christ.
(P) Prayer
Lord, make me aware of areas of pride that hinder your work in and through me. Let me be so consumed with you that pride has no chance to grow in me. Amen
P.S. Today is Veterans Day. When you see a veteran or current military person today – say thanks. They stand in harm's way so that we can live and worship in freedom.
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