Pride. The Great Sin.Sample

Pride always compares to others

“For I am the least of the apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle […] But by the grace of God I am what I am” (1 Corinthians 15:9-10)

A proud person does not derive his joy from having something, only from having more of it than someone else. It is the comparison that makes one proud. So, if the next man becomes equally rich or famous, this takes all the pleasure out of one's blessings.

If you always compare yourself to others, you are in danger from two sides. Either you become arrogant because you consider yourself better than others. Or you feel inferior because everyone else is better, prettier, or richer. These are two sides of the same coin because feelings of inferiority often stem from hurt pride.

Paul compares himself to the other apostles. He considers himself "the least." At the same time, he "worked harder than any of them." However, these comparisons are not so important for Paul. He only dwells on them for a short time. He says, "By the grace of God, I am what I am." That's what counts!

In 2 Corinthians 11, Paul criticizes people who constantly compare themselves to others and feel they are better than everyone else. These people “boast according to the flesh.” Paul wants no part of that.

Do you often compare yourself to others? What effect does this have on you?