“Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another,” Galatians 5:26 ESV. The human condition is so frail that the Galatian believers had to be warned to not become conceited. Spiritual pride can easily slip into our hearts when we compare ourselves with others. Also, the spiritual conceit we see in others can trigger spiritual insecurity in ourselves. In either case, conceit leads to problems for everyone and hinders spiritual progress. James 4:10 ESV has the prescription for the sickness of conceit: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.” God desires us to spiritually grow and help others do the same, but unchecked conceit can stop the process of spiritual growth for everyone. LORD, deliver me from prideful conceit. Take me to the “Mirror of Your WORD” and show the truth. Cleanse me from every lingering stain of sinful pride.
A serious pursuit of godliness requires an equally serious renunciation of worldliness. Too often, we measure spirituality with false scales. While being wisely selective with our public vices we are less so with our private attitudes and perspectives. In reality, it is the thoughts and intents of the heart where the greatest battles must be waged; our actions will ultimately align with the condition of our hearts. Lord God, You know me inside out, You are not fooled by human facades. Plow my heart with Your Word and Spirit and leave nothing unturned. Refresh my inward man that I may outwardly glorify You in all places at all times.
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