Self Esteem Is Vastly Overrated

(Proverbs 3:7 KJV)  Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.

The first part of this verse is a poison pill in our modern world.  What is this nonsense about not being totally self centered?  Who does Solomon think he is to tell us that there is greater wisdom and significance outside of the walls of my personal being?  Who does he think he is, God?  Actually, no.  That is the point.  He is not God.  He is speaking for God.  He is repeating the things that God has taught him, not the things he wants to teach.

Picture a king of that age.  He had total power.  In many cultures he would be considered divine.  It can really go to your head.  And Solomon, a king of that age, is saying, “Don’t be impressed with yourself.”

So?  It is good advice for us today.  By today I mean this calendar day, not this age.  As you go through your day you need to understand this in order to do the things that Jesus told us to do.  It is required to turn the other cheek.  It is a foundation of patience, kindness and forbearance, i.e. love.  Be different.  It is what we are called to be.