This morning I want to speak to you about a subject that many of you do not want to hear about; Pride. Pride is defined as the quality or state of being proud, or of having excessive self-esteem. The definition of proud is an act or attribute; meaning having proper respect.
Many Christians brag about their homes, cars, money and education. It’s okay to have self-esteem. But; it’s a difference in being proud and boasting in pride. Proverbs 27:1-2 reads Boast not theyself of tomorrow, for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth. Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger and not thine own lips. You see the scripture is saying, you don’t have to brag about what you’re doing; let others do that.
We as Christians say things such as; I can do that better or that’s not how you should do that. God doesn’t look favorably upon proud people. Proverbs 6:17 reads a proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood is evil. You see evil is lying on your friend or co-worker, because you want to put them down and build yourself up.
Do you know why people brag? There are two main reasons. The first is some poeple have to tell others about everything thing they have accomplished to make you jealous. They want people to envy what they have. They cannot hold a decent conversation without bragging or boasting. They say things like, I just got a promotion on my job, have you seen my new car? Check out the diamond I bought my spouse.
The second reason people brag is they have never before in thier life accomplished success; or perhaps they are the first person in their family to finish college, or buy a house. It’s okay to be proud of your accomplishments, but don’t boast.
When you brag, you don’t edify God, you edify yourself. When you brag, you take the glory away from God and put yourself in the spotlight.
There is however; a time to brag. When you run into that childhood friend, and they are commenting on how good you look and how nice your car is, it’s time to give God the glory. It’s time to inform them that you have what you have because God gave it to you.
As I close I want to remind you to be careful abut what you brag about, because tomorrow is not promised to any of us. I know a man that we should always be willing to brag about and that man is Jesus. You should always be willing to speak of his goodness.
