Morning Manna – April 28, 2021

Oh That Pride!

I know many of us would not characterize ourselves as prideful. The reality is that we all have a measure of pride whether it be pride in our heritage, families, accomplishments, associations or even in our possessions. And while we don’t often subscribe to ourselves the type of pride that God despises, perhaps we need to take another look.

Pride keeps us from sharing our hurts, disappointments and failures with others (God forbid others see us differently than we want to be seen – perfectly blessed and highly favored). It keeps us from accepting help from others (handouts as we often call it). It causes us to lie about our needs, pretend we’re all good and refuse any assistance for fear of being seen as a “charity case” or “less than”.  It causes us to believe that we don’t need anything or anyone, but God of course. What a lie from the pit of hell, for we are our brothers’ keepers!

Funny…we often say God will provide and He does many times, but through others. It’s like the man who prayed for deliverance from a flood but was too prideful to accept the provision of God because it came through an unexpected vessel or path. Who are we to determine how and through whom we will be blessed? We are not islands unto ourselves – we do need each other.

I don’t know about you but living like that is exhausting and lonely.  A friend once told me to stop blocking my blessings and theirs – accept compliments graciously rather than find ways to erase them, accept gifts freely without the need to repay, say “Thank You” and “I’m Sorry”.  Perhaps I touched a nerve, and that’s good. 😉

The Bible warns us “A proud look precedes a great fall”.  And the dangerous thing about pride is that we have a tendency to see it in others but not in ourselves. Let’s tear down those walls of pride and free ourselves to be gracious and receive graciously the gifts of God. Stop blocking your own blessings!

I Need You – Hezekiah Walker

 

 

Love You All to Life!!

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