Pride

Think of how many losses and sadnesses occur due to pride. Bossy Aunt Henrietta loses the relationship with her beloved nephew because her pride allows her to think that her mothering methods are correct while those of her adult nephew, who has a child of his own, are always wrong. Every time she sees him with his family, he endures an endless attack on how he dresses his children, what he and his wife feed them, and what schools they attend. She feels free to direct every corner of her nephew's life.

Frank, the nephew, and his wife Doris told Aunt Henrietta many a time how her excessive pride was displaying itself by being overly and unnecessarily critical of others, and that this attitude was very hurtful to them, but Aunt Henrietta continued her ways, still thinking others were wrong, and her way was always the right way.

Over time, Frank and his family began distancing themselves from Aunt Henrietta's excessive ego. Eventually, the relationship completely broke off.

God wants us to feel good about ourselves, and to speak His word with boldness, but excessive pride is something very different. Pride can raise the ego to healthy confidence or to unhealthy and hurtful boasting, conceit, the unwillingness to listen to other perspectives, or to offer respect.

It is too late for Aunt Henrietta since she died last year, but it is not too late for you to consider how your own words and actions many be hurting others. It is also never too late to say, "I'm sorry," and it is never too late to change, with God's help, of course.

Suggested prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to see if pride is hurting me or my loved ones in any way. Help me to see the gifts, talents and abilities in all people, and for me to see that I am better than no one, for I too am a sinner, and in need of your merciful forgiveness, wisdom, and understanding. This I ask in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

The above story is purely fictional.

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Contributed by Melanie Schurr (Copyright (c)2005 Melanie Schurr) Melanie Schurr is author of "Ecstatic Living: A Christian marriage manual and Life-guide", "Son Salutations" and "Daily Contemplations", which are a collection of read-one-a-day modern inspirations. For more information, visit www.MelanieSchurr.com