It is quite clear that there is an obvious tendency for individuals to value themselves on account of their wisdom. I'm not talking about the occasional patting oneself on the back for a job well done. No, it goes much further and deeper than that.
We have seen, first hand, various forms of blatant and unashamed self- aggrandizement, where a man glories in his own wisdom, strength, or riches. Outright boastfulness and shaming seemingly know no boundaries.
Where does this come from? It doesn't take much investigation to find the source is our ancient antagonist: sinful pride. Time and time again we have seen the end result of the foolish belief that we can successfully master this adversary on our own.
There is no amount of wisdom, strength, or riches that will allow us to outwit, conspire against, or evade it. It is far more intelligent, infinitely stronger, and more profound in wealth of resources than we could ever dream.
Thus says the LORD: “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches," we are warned in Jeremiah 9:23 (ESV).
In essence, wisdom may fail when it is needed most; victory is not always to the strong; and riches or wealth can be taken or lost. These are finite objects and have no infinite value.
Natural wisdom, strength, and riches are gifts from God and should be embraced and made use of to promote kindness, justice, and righteousness. These are what God delights in. The praise and glory of it all belongs to Him, and not ourselves.
Scripture: Proverbs 16:18; James 4:6; 1 John 2:16; Galatians 6:3; Obadiah 1:3
Prayer: Dear Lord, keep me humble, vigilant, and grounded in You so that I may not fall into the enticing trap of pride and conceit, amen.
Stay blessed,
Becky Lynn
Stay blessed,
Becky Lynn
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