GRACE

GRACE

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

 “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”    Proverbs 3:34; James 4:6; 1 Pet. 5:5
We can be humble and be given grace, OR we can practice pride and set ourselves up against God!
Personally, I need all the help I can get.  I don’t need opposition - especially from God!

PRIDE looks down on others.
   HUMILITY considers others better than self.
PRIDE is independent and self-sufficient.
   HUMILITY knows dependence upon God & recognizes the need for others.
PRIDE wants control, to do it "my way."
   HUMILITY surrenders control, trusts God.
PRIDE has to prove “I’m right.”
   HUMILITY knows “I’m wrong sometimes.”
PRIDE claims rights.
   HUMILITY yields rights.
PRIDE has a demanding spirit.
   HUMILITY has a giving spirit.
PRIDE is only interested in promoting self.
   HUMILITY desires to promote others.
PRIDE is impressed with how much I know.
   HUMILITY recognizes how much I need to learn.
PRIDE is defensive when criticized.
   HUMILITY receives criticism politely.
PRIDE is quick to blame others.
   HUMILITY accepts personal responsibility.
PRIDE is concerned with being respected.
   HUMILITY is concerned with being real.
PRIDE is concerned and controlled with what others think.
   HUMILITY knows that the only thing that matters is what God thinks.
PRIDE works hard to maintain an image.
   HUMILITY wants to reflect God’s image.
PRIDE confesses sin in generalities.
   HUMILITY deals in specifics.
PRIDE is concerned with the consequences.
   HUMILITY is grieved over the causes of sin.
PRIDE regrets that their sin was found out.
   HUMILITY repents and forsakes their sin.
PRIDE waits for others to ask for forgiveness.
   HUMILITY takes the initiative in reconciliation.
PRIDE compares self to others, feels deserving.
   HUMILITY sees the need for God’s mercy and grace.

One last thing: In order to receive grace, BE A GIVER OF GRACE.
Lighten up on everyone else!  Chaplain Tom Beatty (IL) January 30, 2010