Pride or Grace?

But he gives more grace. Therefore, it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” ~ James 4:6

            Pride is the essence of sin. Adam’s sin occurred when he succumbed to the temptation to distrust God’s motives. His subtle decision to elevate his judgment above the Lord’s led to even greater sin against God as humanity willfully dismisses God every day. If one can, at will, disregard God’s constant presence and perfect wisdom, then it is only easier for him/her to disregard his/her neighbor. Pride separates us from each other.

            Grace is the essence of love. It is the opposite of pride. Grace forgives without justification because of love. God’s decision to forgive sinful humanity was motivated by the greatest love ever. God’s action caused the Son to be our justification. Through Him alone are we forgiven for sin against God. Having accepted this gift, we are obliged to surrender our pride and to embrace grace. Grace binds us to each other.

            When Jesus was asked, “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” he said, “’ Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’” This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matthew 22:35–40 and Mark 12:28–34) There is no room for pride in this equation.

            How are the day-to-day decisions we make effected by pride and grace? During the COVID-19 pandemic, we have been asked to endure discomforts like self-quarantines, social distancing, and wearing masks. While some have argued against these restrictions as an overreach by government officials, some have viewed them as necessary for the common good. It is not prudent or especially relevant to debate that here. This is not a message about civil liberties or “rendering unto Caesar.[1]” It is a study of our Lord’s primary expectation of His people.

            The Lord requires us to set aside our pride so that we can see ourselves for what we are, sinners who routinely reject our holy Creator’s leadership. Humility in that instance will lead directly to grace from Heaven that becomes part of our new nature. Have you made this choice yet? Have you accepted God’s grace? If you have, you’ve been forgiven and born again. Why then, would you choose pride over grace in any matter? Granted – we are born again as baby Christians who are gradually maturing in our new life (aka sanctification). Nevertheless, each day offers opportunities to choose grace.

            What can you do today that reflects the Lord’s command to love God with all your heart, mind, and soul and to love your neighbor as yourself?[2] Will you choose discomfort for the sake of others rather than pride-induced self-serving? Jesus said he is the One whose words are a sharp two-edged sword.[3] This means grace for some and judgment for others. Brothers and sisters, we will be accountable to Jesus for our thoughts, words, and deeds.[4]

 

[1] Mark 12:17

[2] Luke 10:27

[3] Revelation 2:12

[4] Hebrews 6:10, 1 Corinthians 3:8, Psalm 62:12, Romans 2:6, Luke 14:14, Matthew 16:27, Revelation 22:12, Jeremiah 32:19, Proverbs 24:12, Hebrews 6:10, Luke 14:14