Pride vs Humility Primjer

Pride

The difference between pride and humility is all about perspective: one is oriented around self-importance and personal visibility, while the other sees self-importance as secondary to a bigger mission.

Proverbs 11:2 says one is a pathway to disgrace, and the other is a pathway to wisdom. It’s clear which is the preferred choice, but what is it about humility that breeds knowledge and good judgement? I think it’s because when we’re humble, we see others. We see ourselves as one part of a whole, and with that space to observe, we learn.

Humility allows you to see all the elements at play in a team, a church, or a family, and graciously consider how they function together. There’s no jostling for prime position or belief that you are the most qualified overseer in all areas – you’re willing to acknowledge the unique abilities of everyone and be ok with them winning at life as they apply them.

If we believe everyone is made in the image of God, then we all carry elements of God’s character and identity. Surely, as we all learn to grow in and reflect that identity, it can only be a good thing for us to allow one another to thrive in it and thus reap the benefits of seeing God’s handiwork in motion.

When we find ourselves in need of wisdom, perhaps it’s time to take a back seat and observe. When you scan your situation with selflessness, what do you see?

Written by LAURA BENNETT