Proverbs 13:10
Where there is strife, there is pride,
but wisdom is found in those who take advice.
This is so true! It is hard to imagine a disagreement or conflict without some element of pride involved. We think our way is the right way (and so the other ways are inferior), our contribution is most important (and so other contributions are less important), our selection is the best selection (and so other selections are not as desirable). What makes us think that we are always right? Somehow, pride must help us to feel more confident and safe. But our safety and confidence comes from our relationship with God- this is the thing for me to remember.
Holy Lord, help me today and through the coming days, to remember this lesson from Proverbs. I am not always right. My way is not necessarily the best way and is certainly not the only way. Lead me, Lord. Amen
Becky, transforming
Proverbs 13:10
Arrogance and not willing to take or listen to advice from others…attributes I am not fond of and would be horrified if anyone thought I demonstrated those attributes. Interestingly, I made a 45 year career of working with surgeons, and these attributes were abounding and dealt with almost daily. Rarely did much good come of it and there were some instances that will stay with me for a very, very long time. I also made a career of purposely surrounding myself with people who were far smarter than I was and I consistently got advice from my team that helped make a stronger organization. I believe God wants us to garner strength from other believers, put our pride…
Proverbs 13:10
From the Message:
Arrogant know it alls stir up discord, but wise men and women listen to each other's council.
I love that the Message used the word "listen." It is such a special skill. Often, we seem to listen but our mind is moving ahead to our response. We take pride in our response. We are helping solve someone's problem. But we should be listening with our heart and mind if we hope to be of help. Sometimes we should just listen.
Prayer: Gracious God, Help me put pride away and be a better listener. AMEN
Proverbs 13:10
Proverbs is teeming with everyday, real life guidance. Anyone who says the Bible is an ancient text of no value to people living today has not read it, especially Proverbs. For many years, respected mentors (going back to Pastor Payne, those at seminary and continuing today with my Deacon supervisor, Rev. Hope Lucky) have repeatedly recommended that I seek out and work with a spiritual director. The dragon of pride has stood in the way for a long time. “I have a lot of life experience.” “How can this help?” “I can direct my own spiritual formation.” With the stalling of my long-envisioned ministry plans and the conflict it brings, I have had to admit I am a…