Pride Vs Respect

I was driving around doing deliveries, and I saw something that often see that triggered off this chain of thoughts leading to this blog. It is completely applicable to my own situation and this week, and it is something that this nation definitely needs to hear. There is a difference between pride and respect.

Consider this Scripture about what God hates..

"These six things the Lord hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren." Proverbs 6:16-19

Now, there are SEVERAL things in that applicable to this day and which society needs to heed. I think many in both of our political parties are guilty, so it's no wonder we seem to lack God's favor. However, I wanted to focus specifically on one that often goes misunderstood and ignored. PRIDE.

The thing that I saw that I often see that inspired this was someone pridefully just crossing a street without even LOOKING to see if cars were coming.  They just EXPECTED others to stop for them.  If they DO give you a look, it is the picture perfect example of a proud look described in the Scripture.

Consider also what Scripture says was the downfall of Satan..

"Your heart became proud on account of your beauty, and you corrupted your wisdom because of your splendor." Ez 28:17

You may be saying.. isn't it a Good thing to have pride in yourself? That's where this lesson applies. I will illustrate the difference between pride and self respect to show why it is not.

Pride says, "I don't need anyone." Self respect says, "I'd like to have friends and romance."

Pride says, "I'm good as I am... people should just accept and love me." Self respect says, "I can definitely improve to become the best version of myself." This also applies to whether you work out, too... or shower and shave.

Pride says, "Others should come seek me without me having to initiate things towards them." Or, on dating apps, "I don't send messages to people. If they don't message me, they are not good enough." Self respect says, "I can put forth an effort to get someone that may not chase everyone."

This also works with the choices that we make. For example, in pride I may say that I can overcome a snake or a wild animal. But, self respect asks why even try, because we RESPECT the strength and power of the animal, too.

It also relates to this week, because it is IMPOSSIBLE to be thankful to God or anyone else, if you are so proud that you refuse the aid of others, EXPECT others to do things for you, or are unwilling to do things for which others would thank you.

I'll just conclude by asking you to think about the OUTCOME of pride vs respect.  Pride will leave you alone, lazy, out of shape, bitter, and depressed.  While respect for yourself and others will lead you to improvement, attraction, friends, and a happier life.  Which would you rather have?