Daily Devotions
Ingratitude & Pride
Title: Ingratitude & Pride
Reading for May 16: 2 Chronicles 32-34
In those days Hezekiah became sick and was at the point of death, and he prayed to the LORD, and he answered him and gave him a sign. But Hezekiah did not make return according to the benefit done to him, for his heart was proud. Therefore wrath came upon him and Judah and Jerusalem.
2 Chronicles 32:24-25
How do you diagnose pride? How do you know you've got a serious problem with it?
Ingratitude.
Ever seen a child at the store scream at the top of their lungs because they can't have what they want and finally the parent caves in and gives them what they want? Does the child say "thank you" or at least seem to be grateful for the gift?
No, and the reason is simple: the child obviously sees himself as the center of the universe. Whatever is given to him is perceived as his due. He demands and does not feel even a shred of gratitude in his heart because he has come to believe that his parents exist only to meet his needs and desires. This is pride in the highest degree.
This is easy to recognize in a screaming child. Do we recognize it ourselves?
Maybe a little test will help... If you were to review the tape of all your conversations, thoughts, and prayers from the last week, would you hear more complaints or giving of thanks?
Kind of scary to think about that, isn't it?
Maybe we should all fall on our knees right now and give thanks!
Father, forgive us of pride. Help us to complain less by being more aware of your blessings in our lives.
