Who Will Master You?Sample
Pride
Introduction
It’s hard to say that Joseph was indeed proud because we don’t know his heart. In some ways, as depicted in Scripture, Joseph's dreams were simply shared, as a matter of fact, with his brothers and father. Of course, we know that they become real truth by the end of his story. Yet, for those of us who are not named “Joseph,” when we share such words of triumph, they usually are an indicator of a proud heart.
The Reasons for Pride
There are two main reasons for pride. First, we really are good/amazing/special. We have a legitimate claim to our status.
Second, we are told by someone else that we are good/amazing/special. There may be some bias involved, but we claim our elevated place even if it is illegitimate.
- What has been your experience with personal pride? Legitimate? Illegitimate?
The Effects of Pride
Just as there are two main reasons for pride, there are two predominant effects. Number one, we see ourselves wrongly. We mistake competence as our right rather than a gift. We think our excellence is only earned by our efforts when it is a combination of human choices and divine will.
Number two, we see others wrongly. We compare ourselves with others and naturally find “them” wanting and ourselves superior. Pride causes us to look down on others as lesser than. We can’t help but point out their deficiencies. We stoop to scold rather than to serve.
- Have you noticed the ill effects of comparison in your life recently?
Will Pride Master You?
- How can you remember that competence is as much a gift as it is effort?
- What practical expressions of service will you engage in to remain humble?
About this Plan
Mesu Andrews, award-winning and best-selling author, joins husband-scholar Dr. Roy A. Andrews to ponder the potential “masters” in Joseph’s early life journey as recorded in Genesis 37 & 39. Along the way, the readers will be challenged to consider the reasons for these potential rulers and the possible effects on their lives. Study questions and selected Scriptures will direct student discovery.
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We would like to thank WaterBrook Multnomah for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: https://waterbrookmultnomah.com/books/671899/potiphars-wife-by-mesu-andrews