Almost everyone heard that a person is something that should sound proud. But this principle, which was heard by several generations, is simply terrible from the point of view of the believer. Because it inspires us with the “need” to feel very important, only because we are people. We make a reservation right away - there is no “good” pride. There is only pride. What it is?
Until you begin to read patristic literature, you cannot see pride behind you. But as soon as we start, it turns out that so many of our motives and thoughts are saturated with pride, sprouted with it. They compared themselves with a colleague, came to the conclusion that pride is better, came to the conclusion that pride and envy are worse. Want to win the competition - pride. What is it, how to get rid of this sin?
Believer as a manager
In general, it is advisable not to try to evaluate yourself at all. This is not even the work of people, this is the work of God. If you have talent (as you learned from others), then you should treat him with gratitude to God. Think of it as that, then you are managing a large estate, and therefore owe God a lot. Therefore, your talent should serve the Lord as much as possible. All your good qualities are simply God's gift, your merit is not in it. And one has only to be proud of achievements, even in good deeds - as a reward from the Creator for them can be “written off”.
On offended carry not only water
We do not know the state of souls of each other, although we see other people's sins. It is likely that the one who offended you sincerely repented, and you do not want to forgive. In this case, your punishment can be much greater than the offender. Indeed, in the prayer “Our Father”, when they talk about debts, it is not only about money, but also about offenders. If you do not forgive, but read this prayer, as befits a believer, every day, then you bring big problems to your head. Because you ask God to treat you the way you treat offenders. God will hear.
Harbinger of pride
Pride is a mortal sin because a person becomes blind and too protected from criticism, loses touch with reality. Pride often comes with vanity, a desire to please and charm. So such a harmless occupation, like reading glossy magazines and daydreaming, can lead to a condition called pride. Aphorisms of the English say that pride always comes before a fall. So if you ascend mentally high, get ready for shame.
And if done well?
How to relate to your achievements? How to the gift of God. If you are praised for success, try not to answer these words. Praise is generally a very dangerous thing, because it often feeds on pride. What does it mean? It is necessary to accept praise as neutral as possible so that the praiser understands that this is not a way to gain favor. It is necessary to praise yourself carefully, evaluating what has been done, and not the person’s personality. So you will avoid awkwardness in communication and suspicions of flattery.
Pride - what is it? Just a consequence of damaged human nature. But this disease can be fought through fasting and prayer, as well as through constant healthy self-criticism.