Put On Humility

For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.   Romans 12:3 KJV

Apostle Paul, in our main scripture text, is cautioning every believer to be truthful(honest)as they evaluate themselves, not thinking of themselves or believing that they are better than they are. I categorize this phrase under "pride." When you think about pride, it is saying to yourself and those around you that you are superior to everyone else. And so, it is essential to be sober and vigilant, with an honest mind, examining yourselves daily to ensure that you are remaining true to yourself, using good sense, and measuring yourself by the amount of faith that God has given you (plain text by the Contemporary English version). Some people may argue thinking highly of yourself does not necessarily mean arrogance. However, if you pay attention to what Brother Paul was saying in this verse, " Not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think," so he is not saying that it's terrible to think of yourself highly but to the point of it leading to an arrogant and superior attitude.

The spirit of pride is a deadly spirit that every human must be careful of. Many believers have fallen victim to the spirit of pride, destroying several destinies. Remember, the same prideful spirit brought down Lucifer from the glorious place God had put him. This dangerous spirit has existed since the beginning of time. See Isaiah 14:12-15. A proud heart is deadly, and we, as believers, must accurately assess ourselves daily to ensure that the spirit of pride has not enslaved our hearts.

Beloved, always strive to live a life of humility, and do not think of yourself highly or better than the next person because of what God has blessed you with (i.e., material wealth, good education, beauty/looks, spiritual gifts, children, spouse, etc.), do not look down on others because they don't have what you have. Pride is the quickest route to eternal damnation, and I decree it shall not be our portion in Jesus' name. I encourage you to examine yourself daily to ensure that no iota of pride should be found in you. Be alert (vigilant) because pride can creep in at any time due to our sinful nature. Allow the Lord to lift you and exalt you in due season; instead of boasting in yourself, boast in the Lord, giving all the glory to Him.