“Lord, I have given up my pride and turned away from my arrogance.  I am not concerned with great matters or with subjects too difficult for me.  Instead, I am content and at peace.  As a child lies quietly in its mother’s arms, so my heart is quiet within me.”  Psalm 131:1-2

What a calming image – all the peace and comfort of a child nestled in its mother’s arms.  This serenity is available to us.  The price?  Our pride and arrogance.

“I can be right or I can be happy.” Have you ever heard that expression?  Presumptuous attempts to prove our point create conflict with others equally determined to defend their point of view.  Although an honest exchange of ideas can be mutually enlightening, arrogance can shift discussions into heated disputes.  Is gaining verbal victory worth the price?  When principles and potential harm are at stake, the answer might be yes.  Other times, we surrender our serenity over a needless contest of whose ego will be bruised and whose will remain intact.

Over-reaching ambition, motivated by pride or arrogance, can also drive away our peace of mind.  I once accepted a promotion to a position I detested and was ill suited to perform, because the title sounded impressive.  A cloud of gloom surrounded me for several months until I finally came to my senses. I returned to my previous job – where I worked effectively and happily for many years.

When our egos stay right-sized, we fit comfortably in God’s loving embrace.

Prayer:  Lord, let me rest secure in Your loving wisdom so that I have no need to cling to my pride.

Reflection for sharing:  How is pride blocking your peace of mind today?