I have always struggled with the idea of pride. Pride in my life happens when I compensate for my insecurities by forcing my image over that of another person. The Bible speaks directly against this sort of life. I will listen to a song and think of how I would record it differently. I will listen to a sermon online and think of how I would deliver it as opposed to the person speaking. I will read a book and think of how I would phrase things differently. While it is important to be discerning at times, it is even more important to partake in the action of simply listening or reading instead of judging all the time. This also happens when I view the life of another and imagine how I would have lived differently. Some people see a celebrity in the tabloid and make fun of their trials. In this moment, are you a participant of grace or judgment?
True promotion happens when you apply for the task and try your best. That’s it; God and your hard work will fill in the gaps. It is not necessary to elevate yourself above others. Applying yourself to the task means working hard and making yourself available for change. If your life does not look like you would expect, then try your best and never participate in the demotion of others unless you are in an area of leadership that will be held accountable by their actions. Do not slander that person. The Bible in the book of James says we should instead strive to be a help to that person in humility and compassion. Always, always, always work hard to be a participant in life and love, and never, never, never work hard to promote yourself on the slain reputations of others. Don’t build the foundation of your life on corpses; build your foundation on God’s perspective and love.
