The sneaky sin of pride. Pride is one of the sneakiest sins in the Bible. It stealthily slips in and fills your heart when you’re unaware. Here are thoughts on how to guard against it.
The sneaky sin of pride. It turns something good into bad.
Then He came to Capernaum. And when He was in the house He asked them, “What was it you disputed among yourselves on the road?” But they kept silent, for on the road they had disputed among themselves who would be the greatest. (ESV, Mark 9:33-34)
Pride stealthily sneaks up on you. After a remarkable achievement. You make a profound statement. Help the helpless. And are all good things. Theyre admirable. Often benefit humanity. And are worthy of recognition. But while you bask in that glory, pride lurks in the shadows. Waiting to quietly ease it’s way in.
Take the disciples for example.
They were hitting their stride in ministry. Supporting Jesus as his ministry grew in fame. Learning about the spiritual kingdom he was building. And the important principles that supported it.
They were pastors and evangelists in training. Learning how to sacrifice, pray, preach, and heal. In other words, they were preparing to advance the kingdom of God. A worthy spiritual ambition. And they had done some remarkable things themselves. But it was going to their heads. And it reached the point they argued about who among them was the greatest.
Pride often begins with something admirable. But the more attention and praise it gets, the greater the temptation to think of ourselves more highly than we ought.
And the irony? The disciples were caught up in their humility, but infected by pride.
The sneaky sin of pride. You’re the last to see it.
Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other men—extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector (ESV, Luke 18:10-11)
Sinful pride builds up slowly–one degree at a time. Beginning with self congratulation.
First, a tiny step. Hey, you’re not so bad. Then it grabs a toe hold. You know, you’re actually pretty cool. And finally it reaches cruising speed in long strides. Wow, Dude. You’re totally awesome!
Don’t get me wrong. It’s normal to feel good after accomplishing something noteworthy. And it’s okay to receive recognition for it. But that is exactly the danger. Because it plays right into our sin nature. Especially the desire to be a little bit better, more excellent, and slightly superior to everyone else.
So we relive that moment over and over like a “feel good” junky. Convince ourselves that we are maybe, no, definitely more virtuous than others. Until we finally reach the pride pinnacle of a legend in our own mind. And completely blind to it.
The sneaky sin of pride. Resist it by giving God the glory.
I will praise You, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will tell of all Your marvelous works. (ESV, Psalm 9:1)
There are ways to guard against pride. And the first is to give God the glory in all you do. However, it doesn’t mean pretending an amazing accomplishment wasn’t amazing. Digging your toe in the ground with head down and saying, “Aw shucks. It was nothing.” That’s actually false humility. Pride in disguise.
It’s okay to acknowledge an extraordinary accomplishment or talent. But also acknowledge your abilities are God given to use for His glory. Because they are on loan for a given time and will eventually fade. However, God’s glory will shine forever. By taking the spotlight off yourself and focusing it on God you’ll keep things in proper perspective.
God is the creator. We are the created. Made and sustained by Him. Our purpose is established by God and best demonstrated by glorifying Him.
Become childlike and remember your sinfulness.
Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them,and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven (ESV, Matthew 18:2-4)
Children are innocent and unpretentious. They see a world full of wonder, assume the best in others, ask honest questions, and naturally trust adult answers. Of course, we know adults are not automatically trustworthy and may consider children naive. Still, Jesus presents them as the model Christ followers should imitate.
Why?
Because God is completely trustworthy and His word absolute truth. Therefore, we can and should follow its teachings faithfully. Not just because God commands it. But because they are for our good and promote human flourishing.
Furthermore, we should remain mindful of our sinfulness. Acknowledge that it’s God’s goodness, not our own, that saves us. And that a life, saved by grace, should offer it in kind. This in turn, fosters an attitude of gratitude that helps us see beyond oursleves.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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Funny persuasion through comedy copywriting. Humor is an effective tool for delivering a persuasive message and creating a memorable advertising campaigns. And here are three things to keep in mind as you do.
When I first started freelance copywriting I used humor all the time. I’ve backed off since then. The most important goal in copywriting is to present your message clearly and persuasively. If humor helps, great. If not, forget it. So let’s consider a few questions to guide you in humor writing.
Funny persuasion through comedy copywriting. Do you think it’s funny?
Granted. We all have a different sense of humor. What you consider funny, I don’t and vice versa. My kids like to remind me that laughing at my own jokes doesn’t mean I’m actually funny. I agree with them in principle, but still consider myself hilarious. Because self-denial is much more satisfying. But the point remains. You should be your greatest fan and your greatest critic.
It stands to reason that if you don’t think something is funny then probably no one else will either. And to a certain degree, humor writing is a form of self-entertainment. There’s a motivating sense of satisfaction in writing a joke that you enjoy. But if you’re the only one laughing at the punch line then everyone else may be laughing at you rather than with you. However, in writing humor, it’s a risk you have to take.
Funny persuasion through comedy copywriting. Does it support the message?
Here’s where I strayed early on. I was so determined to be funny that the humor sometimes overshadowed the message. Okay if you’re just going for a laugh. But the goal in copywriting is to make a point…to persuade your audience somehow. If their attention is focused on the humor and misses the point, then what have you accomplished?
I still see this frequently today and I’m sure you do too. What about those Super Bowl ads? One year, not one of them even produced a chuckle from me. My family was aghast. And some of the ads tried so hard to be funny the message was completely lost. A tragedy considering the millions it costs to air them. The reason? Humor needs to be naturally woven into the story line. Otherwise it is forced. And forced humor just isn’t funny. For someone who so thoroughly enjoys comedy, this is hard for me to admit. But sometimes, straight to the point is better.
Funny persuasion through comedy copywriting. Is it right for your audience?
This too seems like common sense. The humor for a plumber’s convention will be different than for physicians, for educators and so on. The more specific the audience, the more customized the humor. The wider the audience, the more general the humor. This presents the greatest challenge. The most effective approach is to find the humor in universal life experiences. We identify with the frustrated woman who declares, “Where’s the beef?” And we attempt to create our own versions of the exceptionally clever, “Got milk?” Because we’ve been there. We relate. And we laugh together at the shared experience. As you consider your audience, ask yourself: “What are they dealing with?” Look for a common pain or problem. Then present it in a humorous manner and offer a solution.
Humor is an entertaining way to make a point. Copywriting that uses it successfully will increase sales. And you’ll laugh all the way to the bank.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Entering God’s rest is a Biblical teaching found in Hebrews 4:9-14. Here are some thoughts on what it means.
Entering God’s rest. Faith is active rather than passive
Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience (ESV, Hebrews 4:11)
It appears contradictory. Strive to enter rest? Like get busy so you can relax? But wait. First, let’s dig a little deeper. What does the writer mean by “rest?” Curl up for a nap? Take a vacation? Don’t worry be happy?
In this context “rest” means eternity. More specifically heaven. But why call it rest?
Because heaven leaves the stressful chaos of this world and steps into the safe presence of God. Of peace, joy, and harmony. Where fear, worry, and suffering are gone. Well, that’s certainly worth striving for. But the writer doesn’t mean striving as a qualification for entrance. In other words, work hard enough to earn your way. Because sin prevents us from entering heaven on our own merit. Fortunately, sin is defeated by the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Still, the writer urges readers to engage in some kind of activity. But what?
Active faith produces Godly living.
The Christian faith is often misperceived as a passive experience. Simply believe in your head and you’re there. However, James challenges believers to make their faith active. To demonstrate it by righteous living.
Perhaps that why Christ-followers are sometimes disparagingly called “Do gooders.” It’s for good reason. (Pun intended)
We demonstrate our faith through good works to express our love for God. A sign of gratitude for His saving grace. And then actively strive to obey God’s word because we want to, not have to.
Entering God’s rest holds on to our confession
Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. (ESV, Hebrews 4:14)
Christian faith starts with a confession like Thomas the disciple made. He was absent when Jesus first appeared to the disciples after his resurrection, And Thomas insisted he wouldn’t believe unless he saw Jesus and touched his scars. So when Jesus appeared next and Thomas was present, Jesus presented his scars and let Thomas touch them. And Thomas declared, “My Lord and my God!”
Every disciple of Jesus makes this declaration. Recognizing Jesus Christ as the Son of God. Acknowledging his sacrifice for our sins. Confessing him as Lord.
But it’s not one and done. Heaven is locked in and the rest is smooth sailing. Because we must still navigate the struggles of life. The doubts, Uncertainties. Questions. So we cling to that confession. Cherish it. Return to it as a reminder of what Jesus suffered for us. And endure suffering for him too. But it ends at the threshold of heaven. On the other side awaits rest.
Entering God’s rest. God’s grace is an ongoing support.
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (ESV, Hebrews 4:15)
Grace is the message of hope that fuels the Christian faith. And God offers it through the redemptive work of Jesus on the cross. It too, is not one and done. But dispensed in daily doses to strengthen and sustain us through life’s struggle. In the daily grind of living out our faith and striving to honor God. His grace is abundant. Strength constant. Love unyielding.
And hope is not wishful thinking, but an unshakeable confidence. For as we lean on faith, God supplies our needs to endure. His grace upholds and His path is sure. His yoke is easy and burden light.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Leading by influence rather than power is demonstrated in 2 Chronicles 23-24. The story reads like a fairy tale, but without the typical ending. Here’s what we learn from it.
Leading by influence rather than power. Honoring God rather than yourself.
And Jehoiada made a covenant between himself and all the people and the king that they should be the Lord’s people. (ESV, 2 Chronicles 23:16)
When Ahaziah king of Judah died, his mother Athaliah grabbed power by killing the other family heirs to the throne. But she missed one. King Ahaziah’s infant son, Joash was saved by his aunt Jehoshabeath, wife to Jehoiada the priest. They hid Joash for the next six years of Athaliah’s reign that was characterized by idol worship.
Power versus Influence
Power demands compliance, but influence uses persuasion. Obedient versus willing followers. And Jehoaiada wanted the people of Judah to willingly follow the Lord. So he devised a plan to turn the peoples’ hearts back to God. First, he persuaded the military to support Joash in a coup. Then quietly assembled the military, important leaders, and Levite priests in Jerusalem. And at an arranged moment they proclaimed Joash king. Queen Athaliah was seized and put to death. Followed by a public ceremony led by Jehoaiada who recommitted the people to God.
Leading by influence rather than power so others follow God.
AndJoash did what was right in the eyes of the Lord all the days of Jehoiada the priest. (ESV, 2 Chronicles 24:2)
However, influence requires two pre-requisites to work: Relationship and respect. It’s obvious Jehoaiada and Joash had a relationship like father and son. And Jehoaiada’s devotion to God and personal integrity earned him respect. Therefore, Joash willingly followed Jehoaiada’s instruction.
Jehoaiada’s influence made a positive, spiritual impact on Joash. And Joash executed his authority over the kingdom so that the people honored God. He destroyed all the idols, restored God’s temple, and established the worship of God. The result was a strong, prosperous kingdom that was feared and respected by the surrounding kingdoms during Jehoaiada’s lifetime.
Leading by influence rather than power. So those you influence own it.
After the death of Jehoiada the princes of Judah came and paid homage to the king. Then the king listened to them. And they abandoned the house of the Lord, the God of their fathers and served the Asherim and the idols. (ESV, 2 Chronicles 24:17)
Influence at its best leads to human flourishing. To create healthy families. Thriving organizations. And God honoring faith communities. Under the rule of Queen Athaliah, the people of Judah suffered. But they prospered under Jehoida’s influence and the rule of king Joash.
Unfortunately, after Jehoiada died, other voices influenced Joash and led him back to idols. The kingdom of Judah slid into moral decline, Joash descended into an evil king, and was ultimately killed and buried in disgrace.
The ending underscores a critical truth in the Christian faith. You can’t claim the faith of someone else like your parents or a friend. You must follow God and embrace faith in Jesus Christ for yourself. Through his influence Jehoiada the priest led Joash to the threshold of faith. The final step was his, but he didn’t take it. He never owned his faith. So whose faith do you own?
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Why God rejects virtue signaling. Virtue signaling appears in Acts 5:1-10 as the early Christian church was formed. But God immediately rejected it. Here’s why.
Why God rejects virtue signaling. Because it masks the reality of sin
If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. (ESV, 1 John 1:8)
The book of Acts records the formation of the Christian church. The growth especially accelerated after the day of Pentecost, when all the followers were gathered together and filled by the Holy Spirit. Along with boldly proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ, wealthy members shared generously from their resources with less fortunate members.
One wealthy couple, Ananias and Sapphira, sold a piece of real estate and took money from the sale to the Apostle Peter. Although it was a portion of the total sale, they pretended it was the full amount in order to appear completely self-sacrificing. They were more concerned with their moral status as super religious people than the actual needs of others. In other words, they were virtue signaling.
Why is this a problem?
Virtue signaling points to yourself. It says, “See? I’m not so bad. Look at me.” But true humility seeks to glorify God and not yourself. Furthermore, virtue signaling promotes the idea that if we do enough good works, we can earn our way to heaven. And it masks the real problem, which is sin. It is sin that separates us from God. And salvation through Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven. Focusing on your virtue diverts attention from your sin. And sin is the critical moral reality that every person must address.
Why God rejects virtue signaling. It’s the motivation that matters
And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. (ESV, Matthew 6:5-6)
Peter clarified why God rejected the gift of Ananias and Sapphira. It was not the gift itself but the motivation behind it. They didn’t have to sell their property in the first place. And after selling it, they were free to donate whatever amount they wanted.
What God rejected was the deceptive show. The pretend generosity. The hypocritical photo op of caring for others in order to magnify their personal piety. To look holy and righteous when in reality, their hearts were full of pride and self-righteousness.
But wait, you say.
Doesn’t God want us to pursue righteousness? Isn’t that what Ananias and Sapphira were doing? And the answer is, yes and no.
They were doing a good thing, but for their own glory. Christ-followers are called to pursue righteousness in order to please and glorify God. Not to earn divine brownie points There is nothing we can give God that He needs.
What He desires is our fully devoted hearts.
Why God rejects virtue signaling. Holiness is not perfection, but a life set apart.
Now many signs and wonders were regularly done among the people by the hands of the apostles.and the people held them in high esteem. (ESV, Acts 5:12)
But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” (ESV, 1 Peter 1:15-16)
The Greek word for “holy” is hagiŏs, which means to be consecrated or set apart. It doesn’t mean Christ-followers are morally superior to anyone because we are still guilty of sin. The difference is that we acknowledge our sin, confess it, and seek God’s forgiveness.
However, a holy life does strive to demonstrate conduct in accordance to God’s word. To imitate the life of Jesus Christ. And avoid behavior that scripture forbids. It’s not a matter of “have to” but “want to.”
Therefore, Christian joy is a genuine expression of a recipient of grace. A life set free from the bonds of sin. One that celebrates, not our own goodness, but the goodness of God.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
The power of God’s precepts is found in Psalms 119:129-136. These teachings guide the moral behavior of God’s people based on the truth of His word. Here are three ways they empower believers.
The Power of God’s precepts. They guide us on a lighted path.
The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple. (ESV, Psalm 119:30)
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (ESV, Psalm 119:105)
Our culture today celebrates individual, moral freedom. Behavior once considered wrong is now celebrated. And the laws that restrained it repealed. Supporters promised more individual autonomy. Higher enlightenment. Increased personal rights. And ultimately, greater individual happiness. But is this the case?
Because the opposite appears to be true. There’s greater moral confusion than ever before. Increased loneliness. Unhappiness. Darkness. And anger. So much anger everywhere you look.
In contrast, God’s word is a light. It illuminates the path of those who follow it. Increases your understanding of moral right and wrong. And guides your steps of faith in a world of increasing darkness. On the way, you discover that God’s precepts guide you towards a life of righteousness that honors God.
The Power of God’s precepts. They guard us from oppression
Keep steady my steps according to your promise, and let no iniquity get dominion over me. (ESV, Psalm 119:133)
Critics often claim that God’s law is burdensome with its legalistic following of rules. But the writer here claims the opposite. God’s precepts act as guard rails to protect him from the lure and addictive power of immoral behavior.
The Hebrew word for “Iniquity” is a-wen and means evil behavior. The Hebrew word for “dominion” is shalat and means to have power or to rule over. And this is the reality when human passions and lust are unleashed with no inhibitions or restrictions. The behavior often becomes addictive. And the immoral freedoms you celebrate and indulge in with reckless abandon become your master.
Meanwhile, God’s precepts take you on a journey of purpose, meaning, and joy. They guide you in a life that’s meant for you. And grow you into the person He intends you to be.
The Power of God’s precepts. God’s word sets you free
Redeem me from man’s oppression, that I may keep your precepts. (ESV, Psalm 119:134)
If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. (ESV, John 8:31-32)
The Hebrew word for “oppression” is osheq and means deceitfully gotten or unjust gain. In other words, God’s precepts guide you in walking with personal integrity. Another challenge when navigating a world full of scams and unscrupulous behavior.
Despite that, we’re called to demonstrate honest and ethical behavior. Even when it’s a disadvantage next to unethical competition. Because God’s word is truth that sets you free. Freedom of conscience. And the stress in covering one lie with another. Furthermore, the honest reputation you earn over time becomes a rich and satisfying reward.
Studying and following God’s precepts consistently is like a slow drip. A steady jog. Because as you absorb God’s truth and practice it, subtle, but profound changes occur in your life. In how you think, act, and react. Sure, life still throws curveballs that you swing at and miss. But you’ll feel more settled. And with a confidence that God’s precepts are an important key to a meaningful life.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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