why is it so important for us to be Right?

is it to validate our worth–

to gain prestige or control

to have the self-satisfaction that comes with “told you so”

or is it something else?

is it actually something deeper and even more disturbing?

as ugly as the human heart can be sometimes, i’m seeing more and more that nothing gets uglier than selfishness.  and let me tell you, man, do i have a lot of it.

when i think of what the Lord has to say about “being right,” i actually see the glaringly obvious omission of the topic.  He actually emphasizes the opposite.

love is NOT self-seeking.

dare i make the conclusion then, that if we are seeking self we are NOT loving.

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” Phil. 2:3

if we are commanded to “value others above ourselves,” how can we ever strive to be “right” just for the sake of being “right?”  believe me, i do it all the time. 

“An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends and against all sound judgment starts quarrels.”  Prov. 18:1

even when i may not say it, i’m thinking it.  “well, if you would’ve listened to me about…. or i knew that would happen and you proved me right….”  and boy, nothing can lead to an uglier fight than my need for “rightness.”

i need daily forgiveness for the selfish ambition and vain conceit that takes hold of my heart.  i’m praying that my mind and heart will be covered in humility and the valuing of others (this means my husband, too) above myself.   thankfully, my husband and the Lord have grace for me in this area and continue to point me to the need for dependence on the One who has perfect selfless love.

i’m working on it, but want more than anything for Him to do a work in me.

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