My, how smug we can be at times; yes, even as Christians.
“I’ve been saved thirty years, and I’m never tempted any longer.”
“I can handle anything that comes my way!”
“I’m God’s man of faith and power. I have on the full armor of God, and I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me.”
Well, isn’t that just dandy!
Look, friends, I’m not knocking it. God DOES anoint His people to do great and awesome things. His word declares such.
But it ALSO says, “If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall.” (1 Corinthians 10:12 NLT)
So many people, myself included, have, at times, exchanged humility for pride; becoming great in their own minds and thus a wide open target for the enemy.
We think (or act like we believe) that God is so happy we’re on His side. Like without us His Kingdom surely would have faltered.
It’s as though we are self anointed and appointed. We walk on water continuously, while the whole world watches in awe.
Smug in our Christianity.
Fall into temptation? Me? Why, that couldn’t happen!
Right.
Apparently Peter wasn’t as inspired as we thought, when he wrote: “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters all over the world are going through the same kind of suffering you are.” (1 Peter 5:8 – 5:9 NLT)
Do you know what it means to stay alert?
It means keep your eyes open and your heart guarded. Know you have a target on your back. You are in your enemy’s scope and he’s just waiting for that perfect opportunity.
Pride boasts, “I’ve got this! I’m aware of my enemy’s movements and have all the bases covered.”
Humility says, “Will you help me?”
“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.” (Psalm 139:23 – 139:24 NLT)
A man or woman of God shouldn’t trust their calling, gifting, or anointing to keep them away from the snare of the enemy.
Instead, they SHOULD trust God, ALONG WITH godly associates, to help them navigate life’s pitfalls and challenges.
If smugness defines your Christian walk, may I suggest you come up with a different strategy for living?
Understand God resists the proud but provides grace to the humble. The humble receive help, the proud push it away.
Words like, “Help”, “Thanks”, “Please”, and “Will you pray for me?”, are words spoken by every great man or woman of God.
Smug isn’t godly, cool, or becoming.
And it is one major reason why some people aren’t realizing their full potential in Christ.
“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Proverbs 16:18 ESV)
Are YOU smug in your Christianity?
Please checkout my book, “Picked Off – The Target is You”. It explains why many people give in to the trials and temptations which come their way, and how to keep from being devoured by the enemy.
How to not be “Picked Off”.
Available in paperback or eBook version.
For information on “Picked Off – The Target Is You” Click here
Jan Grace 