Friday, July 19, 2024

Daily Devotion: Pride Leads To Contention by J.E. Smith


Bible Reading: Proverbs 13:3-10 KJV 

Key Verse:  "Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom."
Proverbs 13:10 KJV

Pride is a destructive force that can lead to contention, strife, and division. The Bible warns against the dangers of pride, reminding us of the consequences of an arrogant spirit. Our Key Verse above points out that pride leads to contention. The path of pride is a lonely one, marked by bitterness and strife. It isolates us from meaningful relationships and robs us of the joy and peace that come from humility. Pride breeds insecurity, as we constantly feel the need to prove ourselves, defend our egos and hid our short-comings, often through lies and deceit. 

Pride leads to contention because it causes us to focus on our own opinions and desires, rather than seeking understanding and unity with others. When we are consumed by pride, we become resistant to the ideas and perspectives of others, believing that our own way is always the right way. This mindset is dangerous, as it hinders our ability to work together and find common ground. As the Apostle James writes in James 4:1-2, "From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not."

When we are consumed by pride, we become blinded to the needs and perspectives of those around us. Our focus shifts inward, and we begin to view others as threats to our own sense of importance and superiority. This mindset inevitably leads to contention, as we strive to maintain our position and dominance at all costs.

Pride is a subtle adversary that can creep into our hearts unnoticed, yet its consequences are profound. The wisdom of Proverbs and James reminds us that contention, conflict, and strife often find their roots in the soil of pride. When we allow pride to take residence within us, it becomes a breeding ground for 
discord, discontentment, and disharmony.

Daily Devotion: Christ Is All, And In All by Octavius Winslow

Bible Reading: Colossians 3:9-16 KJV   Key Verse:  " Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian...