Pride

God asked Job a very enlightening question: “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me, if you understand.” Job 38:4 (NIV)

Sometimes we forget how big God is and how small we are. That is one factor that makes salvation so amazing. God as the Creator of the entire universe has taken the initiative to rescue, redeem, and restore fallen humanity. God became like us so that we could become like Him. Wow!

So what do we bring to the table? Out of 6.7 billion people on planet earth, what does one individual add to the equation of God’s redemptive activity?

“…not by works, so that no one can boast.” Eph 2:9 (NIV)

Remember, we are saved by His grace through faith. It is a gift, not a reward. We do not earn salvation by our works or deeds. Thus, there is no room for pride. Pride says, “Look at what I have done! Look at what I have accomplished!” The reality is that we cannot add to the completed work of Jesus on the cross.

“May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.” Gal 6:14 (NIV)

How will you respond to God’s transforming grace? How will you interact with people this week in light of God’s redemptive activity in your life?

Pursuing God,

Stephen Trammell
Pastor of Leadership and Pastoral Care