There are many things that should absolutely characterize a Christian player or coach. Hard work. Great attitude. Self-sacrifice. Love. Grace. Courage.
And there’s one thing that can never characterize Christian players and coaches: pride.
Pride. Arrogance. Swag. Call it what you want. It’s a problem. It’s our kryptonite. And it destroys everything it touches.
Proverbs 13:10–“Through presumption comes nothing but strife, but with those who receive counsel is wisdom.”
Presumption is the attitude that says I know it all, don’t need to be taught anything, and have all the answers. Presumption. Pride. Same thing.
What’s the problem with swag?
For starters, God hates pride. Says so in the scripture. He hates it because it keeps us from admitting our need for him.
Secondly, an arrogant attitude, as Proverbs 13:10 says, brings nothing but strife–difficulty in relationships. Why? Because nobody likes an arrogant person. We’re really the only ones who love our swagger. No one else does. I’ve never met anyone yet who just loves to be around people who are self-centered, manipulative, loud-mouthed, and rude.
What’s the answer? It’s right there in Proverbs 13:10–“Those who receive counsel.” The antidote to pride is humbly receiving the guidance God, his word, and those he sends in to our lives bring. When we humble ourselves and listen to God’s counsel, instead of strife we get wisdom. Obviously, one of those pleases God.
Today, what would it take for you to be less swag and more humility? Less talking and more listening? Give it to Jesus today and follow him to wisdom.
Lord Jesus, take my pride and arrogance, my swag. I repent of it. It’s sin. You died to set me free from it. Make it so, Lord. Amen.
