Mar 23, 2022
One of the hardest things to see in a mirror...is
yourself. Oh, you can see the light rays reflecting back your
image, but it's incredibly difficult to see the real
you. Here's why: humans typically have an over inflated
view of themselves. In a fascinating Washington Post article,
author Nitin Nohria writes about how You're
Not As Virtuous As You Think.
"Moral overconfidence is in line with what studies find to be
our generally inflated view of ourselves. We rate ourselves
as above average drivers, investors and employees, even though math
dictates that can't be true for all of us. We also tend to
believe we are less likely than the typical person to exhibit
negative qualities and to experience negative life events: to get
divorced, become depressed or have a heart attack."
Why does any of this matter in regards to our Christian
faith? The truth is, you are more then likely inflating your
success in regards to your discipleship journey. Is that hard
to hear? Probably, no one likes to be told the truth.
However, there is an attitude we can all take which not only helps
us hear the truth, but also positions us to grow in our
faith. What is this
attitude? Humility.
Humility. The ability to put aside pride and ego...and
listen to the truth. Humility, having the guts to admit
you're wrong and want to change. Humility, a desire to put
the needs of others above ahead of yours. Humility can
literally change your life, yet it's so hard to implement.
"Ego builds a cardboard fortress that humility must, every day
tear down." ~ Frederica Mathewes, The Jesus Prayer
How can we begin to "tear down our cardboard fortress" and
continue the journey of true life change? Psalm 131 zeros in
on the importance of humility, but also the powerful result of
practicing it in our lives. If you're ready to take
another step towards humility, make sure and listen to part 12 of
Long Obedience in the Same Direction.