I learned a lesson about self confidence today. I overestimated my ability to pull my car into a parking place and wound up hitting a pole. A certain amount of confidence is needed, but we have to be careful not to let pride cloud our judgment. When pride takes over we can really make a mess of things, like I did with the car.
Another way too much self confidence can do harm is by convincing us that we can do something that we really can’t do by ourselves. Sometimes we need help.
In Luke chapter 5, Peter had been fishing all night and had caught nothing. Jesus told him to cast his nets once again. Peter said, “Master. We worked hard all night and caught nothing, but I will do as You say and let down the nets.” When they had done this, they enclosed a great quantity of fish. Many times the help that we need can only be provided by Jesus. We can work hard and still accomplish little, until we ask God for help.
This truth especially applies to interpersonal relationships, family care, service to others, character building, and spiritual fruit bearing. Psalm 127:1 says, “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.” Important work requires the power of the Almighty.
Reluctant Retiree 