Let all who desire to please Christ, watch and pray against self-esteem. It is a feeling which is deeply rooted in our hearts. Thousands have come out from the world, taken up the cross, professed to forsake their own righteousness, and believe in Christ, who have felt irritated and annoyed when a person has been more honored than themselves. These things ought not so to be. We ought often to ponder the words of Paul, “Let nothing be done through strife or vain glory; but in lowliness of mind, let each esteem others better than themselves.” (Phil 2:3) Blessed is that person who can sincerely and gladly rejoice when others are exalted, though they themselves are overlooked and passed by!
~ J.C. Ryle
Expository Thoughts on the Gospels: Mark, [Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth, 1985], 218, 219. {Mark 10:35-45}
This really goes against everything that is currently being taught in our schools, churches and homes; that we need to boost our self-esteem. I wonder if that is not the root cause of many of our present-day problems. Thanks for the words from the Most High!
Pride is and always has been the “greatest” sin. There is no hierarchy of sin in the Bible, but it is pride that keeps us from knowing God, obeying God, following God. It is pride that caused Satan to want to be God. It is pride that caused Eve and Adam to listen to the serpent rather then God. Over and over and over again in Scripture, pride is proven to be the root of all sin.
You’ve got great insights about Self Confidence Pitfalls, keep up the good work!