1 Corinthians 4:7 
For who makes you so superior? What do you have that you didn’t receive? If, in fact, you did receive it, why do you boast as if you hadn’t received it? (CSB)

For who do you know that really knows you, knows your heart? And even if they  did, is there anything they would discover in you that you could take credit for? Isn’t everything you have and everything you are sheer gifts from God?  (The Message)

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Spirituality is not a spectator sport. 

It is always foolish to act like we are spiritually superior to others. It is always foolish to esteem popular personalities as spiritually superior to others. True spiritual depth is a gift from God, not a personal achievement. Those who walk most closely with God have the most settled dispositions. They feel no compulsion to prove their standing.

Spiritual vitality is noticed by a person’s conduct over time. The pulpit and the lectern are not the best indicators of how closely a person abides with Christ. 

The temptation is always present to pretend we are more important than we are. 

Good publicity and prominent positions are not key indicators of a person’s walk with God. Selfless service without video evidence comes much closer to authentic depth. 

What is the antidote to spiritual pride? Remember this: If you see a turtle on a fence post, you know it didn’t get there by itself. Everything a person becomes by God’s grace is a gift. God gives us gifts to use to bless others. We are to live like Abraham, blessed to be a blessing. 

In simple, everyday situations, gentleness and kindness say much more than loud proclamations or lengthy applause. 

Simplicity and silence are the trademarks of true spiritual giants. 

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I will live a kind and gentle life by passing along to others what God places in my hands.

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