Pride.

I read the following exceprt in Beth Moore's book about Praying God's Word. This is a great book! It's chock full of scriptures to pray us out of any stronghold we may face. Today, I'm reading about Pride. It's a stronghold that shows itself in so many different ways. When we hear the word "pride," we often assume it to mean that a person thinks they are just so super awesome and nobody can touch their awesomeness. But that's not always accurate! That's why I love what Beth (yes, we are on a first name basis, Beth & I, she's my long distance mentor, she just does not know it yet!) says here. Pride comes to us through many avenues...and it's something the Lord is shining light on in my own life. I wanted to share this:

"My name is Pride. I am a cheater.
I cheat you of your God-given destiny...because you demand your own way.
I cheat you of contentment...because you "deserve better than this."
I cheat you of knowledge...because you already know it all.
I cheat you of healing...because you're too full of 'me' to forgive
I cheat you of holiness...because you refuse to admit when you're wrong
I cheat you of vision...because you'd rather look in the mirror than out the window.
I cheat you of genuine friendship...because nobody's going to know the real you.
I cheat you of love...because real romance demands sacrifice.
I cheat you of greatness in Heaven...because you refuse to wash another's feet on Earth.
I cheat you of God's glory...because I convince you to seek your own.
My name is pride. I am a cheater.
You like me because you think I'm always looking out for you. Untrue.
I'm looking to make a fool of you.
God has so much for you, I admit, but don't worry...
If you stick with me, you'll never know."

See yourself in any of that? Regretfully, I do.

Oh Lord, thank you for your light that shines ever so softly on the area's of our heart that need a work. You are so full of grace & mercy. I take delight in serving you Lord. Thank you for having me, Jesus.