" PRIDE "

PRIDE: defined in this manner; 1- Conceit; 2- justifiable self- respect; 3- elation over an act or possession; 4- haughty behavior; disdain; 5- ostentatious display - prideful. Now God will harshly judge those who are prejudiced or whose pride causes them to look down on others. No one should think too highly of themselves. In this world because of a persons status they may think to highly of themselves. Every group, even churches, will have those who think they are too wise or important to work hard. Gentle encouragement doesn't seem to help. Sometimes the best policy is to ignore them. They may think they are getting away with something, but their inactivity will be remembered by all who worked hard. Not every necessary job is a highly visible leadership role. Much of necessary labor of any effective enterprise considered by many to be dirty work. But such work is vital to getting any big task done. Engineers and Millionaires may design and finance an elegant building, but it is the bricklayers who get the work done. Pride causes us to want recognition. Are you content to be God's bricklayer, or do you resent the work God has given you? Wounded Pride makes us want to lash out. We sometimes strike out at blameless people who get in our way because we are embarrassed or our pride is hurt. Lashing out at others can be a sign that something is wrong with us. Don't allow your own hurt pride to lead you to hurt others. LAST POINT: Taking credit for accomplishments of others indicates that pride is controlling your life. When you notice pride taking a foothold, take immediate steps to put it in check by giving credit to those who deserve it. Until Next Time... Jim,