Pride Does Not Sound Good
Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. James 1:9
We had such a nice time at the Apple Festival! It is always good to see family and friends and fill our hug tanks. While it rained all the way from Limerick to Arnot, we occupied the time with shared memories. Being truly glad to get home, we sat quietly for the evening and turned in early.
Sleep arrived quickly and then Gabby jumped up on the bed—all eighteen pounds of him. The problem was that he kept jumping around and making this horrible noise. It was somewhere between a growl and gross indigestion. An ugly sound!
It took Michael several minutes to recognize it and then he hollered: “Gabby has a mouse on the bed!” On went the lights and Gabby jumped off the bed with his prize. As I peered over the edge of the bed, Gabby just stared at me. I saw Garfield with his big grin, and it was full of mouse.
Pridefully, he wanted to show us his catch. At midnight and half asleep, we were not enthused with his hunting abilities. Nonetheless, after the mouse was safely disposed of, he did receive some snuggles. (I’m sure he was thinking: This is nice but where is my treasure?)
The sound he made was very unpleasant. When we are proud and boasting, what do we sound like? Are we verbally shoving others out of the way? Is there anything about our prideful moments that lets the love of Jesus shine through? Do we also push Him aside? Our words turn everything sour as we share our triumphs—Look what I’ve done!
Our words and deeds have little meaning if we don’t give Him the glory and honor He deserves. Gabby is loved dearly, and he did what came naturally to him. He wanted to show us his skills. But how do we naturally handle pride? Are we full of ourselves or gratitude? Honestly, we cannot do anything of lasting value without His guidance and strength.
Pride has its place. It comes after recognizing His big part and then owning our small input in carrying out His plan. When we have accomplished His tasks, then there is some room for pride in our Lord and what He can do through us.
Heavenly Father, thank You for loving us even when we are full of ourselves and become prideful. Please help us to remember You. Teach us to honor You first. AMEN.
Photo Mo Johnston