Pride and Passivity

Pride and Passivity are two things I struggle a lot with in my faith.

1) Pride 

The old proverb has been drilled into our brains since childhood: "Pride goeth before a fall". (Proverbs 16:18). And sure, we think-I'm not proud. Believe me, I tell myself that. But the fact is, a lot of us struggle with pride and it shows up where we least expect it. When we're in an argument and not willing to say, "you're right". When we aren't willing to humble ourselves and admit we made a mistake. Being humble is at the epitome of Christian faith because before you can start on your faith journey with Jesus you have to say, " I messed up-big time. You're always right-and a lot of the time, I'm wrong." On this thing called "a walk with Christ", being humble is not just recommended, it's a make it or break it issue. Most times, I think I'm breaking my faith by subconsciously believing I have everything together. I don't-I need to refuse pride the pleasure of succeeding in my life. 

2. Passivity

The temptation of becoming passive in our faith is all around us. We get comfortable, and forget the things Jesus called us to do. For example, go and preach to the nations. Or feed the homeless, care for the widows. I'm especially guilty of obsessing over my personal relationship with Jesus-how I can feel closer to Him, what prayers I need answers, etc. and I so often forget there's a world out there that needs Jesus and I'm called to spread the good news. Maybe it's not across the world, or even cross-country. It could just mean to stop being selfish with my faith and being willing to step out and share with others. "Sharing is caring." Passivity is too easy to fall into-and it's not just with the gospel, but in every area of our lives. Getting comfortable and forgetting to serve others, make time for Jesus, or even make time to spend quality time with people (aka fellowship). James 2:17, "In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." (NIV)

So lets fight these two P temptations. Often, I find they go together. I get proud in how well my faith is going (better yet, how I think it's going) and I get passive in bringing my faith into my actions. Interesting how that works, right?