Pride is destructive. Not the pride one takes in his children, job, home or country, but the pride that leads to an arrogant, self-sufficient attitude. Hi, I’m Tom Ellsworth from Sherwood Oaks Christian Church with a minute message.
The story is told that Mark Twain once sat through an exceedingly dramatic sermon of which the preacher seemed obviously very proud. Afterwards, the famous author shook the preacher’s hand and quipped, “Well, yes, it was a ripsnorter all right, preacher, but you know, I have a book at home that has every word in it.” The minister, quite indignant and puffy with pride responded, “Why that’s quite impossible. I would certainly like to see that book, if indeed it exists.” With his characteristic style, Mark Twain responded, “So you shall. I will mail it to you first thing in the morning.” Eventually, a bulky package arrived from the author with an enormous postage-due attached. The preacher paid the charges, ripped open the package and found himself holding a dictionary.
The writer of Proverbs reminds us, “Pride goes before destruction and haughtiness before a fall.” God warns us not to be consumed with our own importance. Prideful arrogance always destroys relationships, but everyone welcomes the spirit of humility.