We have recently survived (although continue to feel the consequences of) the great self-esteem era when feeling good about yourself was no longer tied to hard work, moral uprightness, courage, even kindness and honor. It didn't take very long for even our youngest children to figure out that praise given cheaply was worth nothing in the long run. For the theologians among us, this is exactly what Bonhoeffer was talking about when he spoke of 'cheap grace.'Perhaps this self-esteem era is the reason we trip over any number of folks who are filled with pride with no real substance. That kind of pride turns into arrogance fairly quickly. And I could do with fewer arrogant people in my world.
Jesus says, "Do not think too highly of yourself" [BTW Your mother had the same advice.] Don't fill your inner void of unworthiness with false pride, bravado and bragging. Rather, take a lower place and put your energy to honoring others. Which is exactly what Jesus will do for you....because you are loved by the God who created you and the Savior who came to call you into life. You are a beloved child of God.
The irony of knowing you are beloved will lift you to heights while at the same time leave you humbled to your very core. Then you will truly understand the call to 'seek justice, love mercy and walk humbly with your God.'
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