Abandon the illusion of prideful self-sufficiency. There's not one of us who hasn't patted ourselves on the back from time to time. Maybe you've succeeded in disciplining yourself to meditate, pray, and read the Bible every day for a week. Or perhaps you've received the year-end statement of your giving to the church at year's end and noticed how those tithes add up to quite a generous contribution. Or maybe you've found yourself speaking more openly about the Lord.
Pride creeps in the back door.
I'm a pretty good guy, Lord. If I keep this up, I know you have to bless me. The Chapel sure is fortunate to have me on the team. Pastor Mike Bickle tells this story. He was feeling pretty good about his ministry, congratulating himself on being such a good disciple and spiritual Pastor.