Pride and the Scarlet Letter

When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. -Proverbs 11:2

In The Scarlet Letter, a young woman is forced to wear a letter on her clothing that stands for the sin she's committed - so everyone can see it.  I've thought of that Scarlet Letter when it comes to my pride. The Bible says pride is sin. Maybe I should be wearing a big red "P" on my shirt. As I walk with Jesus, though, I realize the dangers of pride and I yank the stupid thing off and throw it away.  I don't want to be arrogant, so I repent. So often, though, I don't realize that I've really just traded the large "P" for a smaller one that I keep tucked in my pocket.  I've traded worldly pride (which is "so obvious" and "so ugly") for what seems to behave much more appropriately: pride in my walk, my growth, my insight, etc… Yuck!

I usually don't realize that I've puffed myself up until the Lord has seen fit to let my air out! A trial or a pain comes along to show me just how human I am.  I've hurt someone with my attitude, and I realize how much I need Jesus. Every once in a while, I see that letter sticking out of my pocket and repentance saves me from a shock wave. 

Knowing that I'll never be perfect this side of heaven, I'm almost grateful for the sin of pride. It's something I have to deal with on a daily basis.  Humility puts other people first, I struggle with that. Do you? Each one of us has been called to die, every day, to ourselves. Every day, I am to lay myself (my SELF) at the cross of Christ.  That's the only thing that will keep me completely dependent on the Lord (eyes on Him - not me!) each and every day.  

More time…

For from within, out of the heart of men, proceeds the evil thoughts,...as well as deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride and foolishness. All these evil things proceed from within and defile the man.  -Mark 7:21...-24

…(P)raise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything He does is right and all His ways are just.  And those who walk in pride He is able to humble.  -Daniel 4:37

All of you, clothe yourselves in humility toward one another, because, "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."  Humble yourselves under God's mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time.  -1Peter 5:5-6

Pray…

Dear Lord, please take away the pride of my heart.  Help to me remember, every day, that what I have and what I know comes from You.  I want to give You the credit, and not take it for myself.  Thank You for everything You've given me..  In Jesus' name.  Amen. 

Now what?...

What are some of the things you are proud of?

Is there a difference between "good" pride and "bad" pride?

How can pride be dangerous?  How is humility an appealing characteristic?

Word Challenge...

Look up the words humility and pride, and write down your thoughts on the differences.