As I walked around the shopping center this morning, I noticed the very different posters displayed in neighboring stores. One store displayed pictures of models with huge smiles and a carefree appearance. The next store’s posters pictured people with very serious looks that appeared to me as scowls of arrogance.
Of course, I cannot say with any assurance what attitudes were really intended. If you look intently at the faces around you and in the media you will see the same dichotomy. Some people walk around with smiles on their faces and a carefree appearance. Others walk around with scowls on their faces and a forceful demeanor. They seem to be saying, “look at me because I am important.” We see this in sports as an athlete celebrates by pounding his chest and posing with that scowl for the camera. Music videos feature the same expression.
Of course, these are only my perceptions, but I wonder if we have gone too far with self-agrandizement. Do our facial expressions convey pride and self importance? Do our celebrations focus on our accomplishments and ignore the assistance provided by others or teammates?
Pride is a dangerous enemy. It slips in unnoticed and takes over our thoughts. It causes us to ignore the needs of others. It keeps us from acknowledging our need for God. II Corinthians 10:17-18 says, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord. For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.” Pride keeps us from God’s approval. Humility draws us close to Him.
Reluctant Retiree 