Embracing Uncertainty: Confidence or Pride

Don’t be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and turn away from evil. This will be healing for your body and strengthening for your bones. PROVERBS 3:7–8 CSB 

In today’s verse, God is saying not to think too highly of yourself or be impressed with your wisdom. And then the healing process for your body will begin, giving strength to your bones. 

Stress has scientifically proven to undermine our physical and mental health. I have learned that many people get pride and confidence mixed up. They believe that speaking highly of themselves and putting themselves on a pedestal is having confidence when it really only reveals a prideful heart. However, God is instructing us to humble ourselves by putting our confidence in Him. And when we do this, our humility gives space for the glory of God to be revealed over and over in our lives. When our ego fills the room, where does God’s glory reside? 

Fearing the Lord means to be in reverent awe of His holiness, and to honor Him as the God of great glory, majesty, purity and power. Our confidence is in His ability to do great things through us. Our confidence comes from knowing where our help comes from. We lean on, rely on, and trust in God in every area of our lives. That confidence, at the core, comes from ability—not our own ability but the very essence, direction, and guidance of God. 

Prayer: 

Father, I release all pride out of my heart, soul, and mind. I surrender this area to You. Even when I have good intentions, show me myself and any pride that I am walking in, and then change me, God. Teach me Your ways so I can fear You and turn away from any and all evil. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

This is an excerpt from Release: 90 Days to Embracing God’s Plan for Your Life by Bridgette Reed – a new devotional journal now available on DaySpring.com. Shop all books, journals, and devotions from DaySpring here.