Be not Proud of Heart

FOR HE CARES FOR YOU.

                 Occasionally, I hear a well known expression that reminds me of my father's words.   He instilled in me a work ethic by stating “If a job is worth doing, it’s worth doing right.”  He taught me fiscal responsibility by emphasizing, “Money doesn’t grow on trees.”  I found safety and protection in my father's love and I cherish his values through these expressions of truth.

               Of course, I wanted to be like my Dad and make him proud of me.   There began my notion of pride.  I sought pride from others and began to take pride in myself.   But then, as I read the Bible, I noticed that people who follow God,  stop to pray and thank Him.  WHOA!  God chooses imperfect people to do great things, and they point to God to glorify Him.  Faithful followers trust that God is the power and the strength!

^" The Lord detests all the proud of heart.
    Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished."

 Proverbs16:5

                 I realize pride is SIN.  Sin separates us from God.  Pride is EGO and to coin a phrase I have heard, EGO is Easing God Out.  Pride tells us that we, alone, are fully capable and our success is based on our knowledge and strength.  When we tell God, “I got this!” we forget to, “Lean not on your own understanding”. (Proverbs 3:5)  What happens when we neglect to rely on God?

                The Bible refers to us as sheep.  Sheep are pretty dumb animals that can get stuck in dangerous places without food or water.  Sheep follow other sheep and when the “blind are leading the blind”, everyone is lost.  When we identify with man, (I mean sheep🐏), we may end up with fancy cars and houses but hungry for love and connection.

                 "Better a little with righteousness than much gain with injustice."

Proverbs 16:8 

                What I love about God is that He does not leave us without instruction.  His manual for our life is the Holy Bible.  We can easily seek more of God and His righteousness so we can right size our view of self, finding our true identity in Christ.  We have an everlasting Father who delights in humble people.  Trust in Him knowing that we are His sheep and He is our Shepherd.