Get a Bible and open it to Rom 12:1-8. Let’s consider these verses for implications on different reasons we might display pride. Verse 1 suggests several reasons we might be proud: (1) We don’t appreciate God’s mercy and grace (‘therefore’). (2) We think our struggle against the flesh, the world, or the devil isn’t very difficult (‘urge’). (3) We believe that less than 100% dedication to the Lord is acceptable (‘offer your bodies’). (4) Despite being a Christian, we embrace self-condemnation because we underestimate God’s mercy and grace (‘holy’). (5) We try to be good enough for God to accept us (‘pleasing to God’). (6) We are too nonchalant about worshipping or serving God (‘your reasonable service and worship’).
Verses 2-3 suggest other reasons: (7) We rely on worldly wisdom or our natural talents (‘do not conform,’ ‘grace given me,’ and ‘faith God has given.’). (8) We are not diligent to learn God’s ways (‘be transformed’). (9) We don’t try to determine God’s will before we take on a project (‘test what God’s will is’). (10) We overestimate ourself in some way (‘do not think more highly of yourself’). An example would be exaggerating our abilities (v 6 – ‘in proportion’).
Verses 4-8 suggest further reasons: (11) We compare ourself or our gifts to others or to their gifts (v 4 – ‘not all have the same function’). (12) We are not very willing to give or receive help from God’s people, the body of Christ (v 5 – ‘each member belongs to all the others’). (13) We believe our leadership role is deserved (v 6 – ‘the grace given us’). (14) We are disobedient to what the Lord has called us to do (v 6-8 – ‘let him’). (15) Our attitude is wrong (v 8 – ‘cheerfully’).
Let us learn to increasingly recognize, then abandon, every form of pride!
Instead of being timid, learn to be appropriately bold.