“Patience is better than pride.” Ecclesiastes 7:8
Pride is the opposite of patience. Man is impatient, because he is proud.
Many are proud — who think themselves humble. But let vexations come — have they to bear reproof, to meet the faults, or ignorance of others — and impatience tells the truth; they are proud, not humble!
Pride argues ignorance of SELF.
Would you be humble? Then . . .
- look at your own corruptions;
- survey your features in the looking-glass of Scripture;
- consider well your own spiritual deficiencies;
- study the failings of your character.
Ah! if you know your heart — then none will appear so vile, so corrupt, so sinful, as yourself!
Would you be humble?
- Then think of the cross of Christ.
- What nailed Him to the tree?
- The bloody sweat; the crown of thorns; the tears; the pains; the taunts; the buffetings; the piercing cry — what caused them all?
- Your sins! Christian, remember this — your sins!
- Can you feel this, and yet be proud?
Would you be humble?
- Think of the pit, from which He snatched you!
- Think of the price, at which He bought you!
- Think of the grace, with which He clothes you!
- Think of the bliss, with which He will crown you!
(George Mylne, “Lessons for the Christian’s Daily Walk” 1859)
HT: Grace Gems [Pictures Mine]
Would you be humble?
Then think of the cross of Christ!
