One of the coping mechanisms many of us use when dealing with low self-esteem and the humiliation of our past failures is the mask of arrogance. We work so hard to cover up our shame that we no longer are in touch with what is real and needs to be dealt with. We are all a mixture of strengths and weaknesses but because of His love for us, God wants us to come to a realistic assessment of who we truly are.
Arrogance is the steel-hard resistance that supports denial, blames others, and excuses us, as we continue to believe that our problems are created by the actions of someone else.
Healthy recovery requires us to take responsibility for our actions and reactions. In humility we need to see ourselves as we really are. We also need to practice the gift of mercy as we see others’ flaws and recognize that we are all on a level playing field where we need to encourage one another by sharing the experience, strength, and hope that God has graciously given us.
People who think they are wise when they are not are worse than fools. God is against the proud, but he is kind to the humble. (Proverbs 26:12, James 4:6b ERV)
Prayer: Loving God, I want to live in truth. I lay down my masks, particularly arrogance and grandiose thinking, and humbly put my trust in You to help me recognize my character defects. Teach me to love others as You love me. I want to be the person You created me to be. Amen
Audio for Character Defect Arrogance
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