While studying Psalm 131, we read some very interesting
surveys. We learned that 70% of the US
population surveyed believes that American values have declined significantly
in the last 40 years. But the funny, yet
eye-opening, stat is that we all think the problem is not us. We tend to inflate our positive qualities and
abilities, especially in comparison to other people. Out of 1 Million people surveyed, no one
rated themselves below average. Over
half of those people thought they were in the top 10%.
Pride, arrogance, entitlement, and a sense of self
sufficiency is not new. Our churches are
full of Christians trying to do things on their own, but so was King
David. We learned that God hates pride
(Proverbs 6:16-17), Pride goes before destruction (Proverbs 16:18), and God
saves the humble but brings down the haughty (Psalm 18:27).
So how can our community of unity put away worldly
practices and grow in our spiritual journey?
My challenge to you this week
is to answer these questions on your own and then discuss with your spouse.
Have I asked God to show me where my pride/self
sufficiency is keeping me from giving all to God?
How can I still and quiet my soul as described by King
David?
What worldly practices do I need to prune from my life to
free me for spiritual growth?
On a side note, if we tend to inflate our own value, what
do we do with our children? Are we
harder on them? Or do we think they are in the top 10% compared to other
people? How does that affect our
parenting and teaching them about reliance on their creator?
Be intentional this week.
Travis
