It feels good to be proud.  Proud of what we have accomplished through hard work, proud when people look up to us.  And certainly we should take pride in the fact that we are unique and special to God (and perhaps show gratitude for the gifts He has given us by serving others).

Yet should we keep our pride in check?  Proverbs 16:18 reminds us, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”  So don’t be surprised when pride trips you up and you indeed hit rock bottom.  You can’t say you weren’t warned.

Is fame a source of pride for you?  Just wait for the media to bring you down, or the very people you thought were your friends.  Is wisdom a source of pride for you?  Well, just stop and think about what true wisdom really is.  Could it be the willingness to learn in humility?  Proverbs 11:2 says, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”  And Proverbs 13:10 says, “Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.”  I think there is a lot to be gained (and learned) when you turn your pride into humility before an awesome God.

What causes you to be proud?  Do you need to add a dose of humility in those situations?  Let me know your story – I would love to hear from you.