Jul
28
Self-esteem
There is a lot of talk today about the problem of low self-esteem. But what about the problem of high self-esteem (aka “pride”). Pride can mess up a lot of things in life. The Bible’s solution is the middle ground of humility. Jeremy Taylor wrote the following, very practical, guidelines for living a life of humility. I hope you get as much out of them as I did.
1. Do not think better of yourself because of an outward circumstance that happens to you. (Wealth, promotion, fame, etc.)
2. Humility consists in a realistic opinion of yourself, not self-deprecation.
3. When you hold a realistic view of yourself, be content that others see you the same way.
4. Nurture a love to do good things in secret.
5. Never be ashamed of the lowly status of your birth, parents, occupation, or present employment.
6. Never say anything, directly or indirectly to illicit a compliment or praise.
7. When you receive praise, take it indifferently and return it to God.
8. Make a good name for yourself by being a person of virtue and humility.
9. Rejoice in God who gives the gifts others see in you, not in the praise of people who see those gifts.
10. Don’t ask others your faults with the intention or purpose of receiving praise for your good qualities.
11. When you are slighted or undervalued by other others, don’t harbor secret anger towards them.
12. Don’t fantasize about being powerful, rich, popular, or famous.
13. Actively praise others.
14. Be content when you see or hear that others are doing well, even if you are not.
15. Never compare yourself with others, unless it is to advance your impression of them while lowering your impression of yourself.
16. Don’t try to excuse all of your mistakes.
17. Give God thanks for every weakness, fault, and imperfection that you have as a way to keep you from becoming prideful.
18. Do not expose others weaknesses in order to put them down and exalt yourself.
19. Submit all that you are and have to God.
Previous Comments
#1 from on July 31, 2009
Wow… with my fear of man I chose to have one-up on others by pointing out their faults, but excusing my own. Death of a marriage is likely when there is denial of one’s faults when your spouse, with God’s guidance, is shouting need for correction. Excuses are red flags of pride.
#2 from on September 07, 2009
These are very practical applications to live by. I can see some of my shortcomings and strive to improve, making me a better listener, friend, daughter of the King, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, neighbor, coworker, ect.. Thank you.