From Sweet to Sour

Proverbs 13:10

10By pride comes nothing but strife, but with the well-advised is wisdom.

God provided King Solomon with wisdom on instances of pride several times in the book of Proverbs. There is a certain amount of pride that is acceptable such taking pride in what you do, to do your best. Or a loved one who is proud of their child, parent, significant other/spouse, family member, friend, etc for what they have completed or achieved. However, there is another level of pride that is not so lovely.

What is pride? Merriam-Webster's Dictionary defines pride by the not so lovely perspective as 1) conceit 2) justifiable self-respect 3)elation over an act or possession 4) haughty behavior: disdain 5)ostentatious display. Let us go deeper with the first definition. What is conceit? Conceit is an excessively high opinion of oneself or vanity. At this level of pride, as King Solomon describes, strife and arguments are more likely to erupt. Why? Because the person believes they have all the answers. But one who is humble is willing to accept information that can assist them. God is the source of true wisdom. And when God begins to dispense guidance and information whether directly through His Holy Spirit or a messenger that can keep you from sticky situations do you receive Him? Or do you create strife between you and He? It is likely that strife with Him will also be strife with those around you as your relationship with God is also reflected in your relationship with others. And then do you find yourself in problems that you need to ask Him to help you out of?  When you heed the Word and wisdom of God, you not only obtain wisdom but you avoid unnecessary problems.


Growing up I heard the term, "smelling yourself". When you begin to smell yourself and think you know better than the one who created you, sooner or later that sweet smell you think is in your nose turns sour. Do not become sour. Learn to seek God for all answers and before all ventures. Learn to seek the wisdom of the one who knows what the end will be.