Listen

No doubt about it: your servant is enlightened by them; there is great reward in keeping them. But can anyone know what they’ve accidentally done wrong? Clear me of any unknown sin and save your servant from willful sins. Don’t let them rule me. Then I’ll be completely blameless; I’ll be innocent of great wrongdoing.

Psalm 19:11-13

Think

It is really good when we put God’s decrees into practice and as a consequence, we do the work that pleases God. But what happens when pride dominates our ability to make our works good? When we are young (and if I am honest when we are adults too), the fact we are applauded and celebrated for doing something good may be our main motivation for complying with God’s rules.

Receiving praise and applause when we do something good is not a bad thing. However, our goal in doing a good job should not be to be celebrated. Imagine if the reason Jesus died on the cross was for worship only and not the forgiveness of our sins. That would change the event that unites us all as Christians. It can be easy to get carried away by our pride, but if we put our pride aside and our priority is to do God’s will and care for those in need, our work will be free of sin.

William Muñiz

Question to Ponder:

How many times has pride been a hindrance to your following God’s ways?

Pray

God, grant that I may strip myself of all pride that clouds my intentions to follow your ways. May recognition from others not be my motivation to comply with your rules and expectations. Renew my heart so what flows from it may be pleasing to you, Lord.

Amen.

Go

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord’s face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May the eyes of God’s favor be upon you and may you do the work that God has put in you.