Pride and Humility: Observations about Myself

Reflecting upon the many biblical references to pride and humility has led me to make the following observations about myself:

—I don’t know everything there is to know about anything. As I learn more, I only realize how much more remains to be learned that I do not yet know. I have more to learn about everything. And I simply do not have the capacity to think through everything from all angles.

—I have biases, prejudices and blind spots. I have preconceived notions, and I make numerous assumptions that remain largely unexamined. Some I have inherited, and others I seem to have developed entirely on my own. My perspective on everything is heavily influenced and severely limited by the way I have been raised, the culture in which I live, and the native language I speak and understand.

—I can be deceived. This is a sobering truth I know from experience. In the area of sexual morality, for instance, I have at times believed the lie of pornography and have even justified my self-indulgence. Thankfully, I also can be corrected by the Spirit of Truth, the Lord Jesus Christ.

—God has blessed me with gifts and abilities. I have walked with him since childhood, over 50 years, but I still sin. I can be a jerk. My heart is easily distracted with petty and vain thoughts. I continually need mercy, grace, and forgiveness from God and others.

[This is the first in a series of posts excerpted from the “personal conclusion” to my booklet, “30 Meditations for the Proud” February 2013. To receive a free electronic copy, please email me at daniellesliepeterson@gmail.com]