Confidence and Pride

This post inspired from a sermon of my good friend Toney Stowers. I am perplexed sometimes when differentiating between confidence and pride. God loathes the prideful(1 Peter 5:5-6, Prov 11:2, James 4:6-7). I typically do not demonstrate or perhaps even possess a confident attitude. I do not want to be seen as prideful/brash/arrogant/egotistical. 2 Cor. 3:4-5, ‘Such confidence as this is ours through Christ before God. Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God’. I now believe the prevalent factor to be in recognizing the source or origin of confidence. If we are narcissistic and see ourselves as in control and haughty of our abilities, we indeed minimize the true source. Appropriate confidence is realizing that God is the source, we praise/thank Him, and use the abilities given to serve Him. Perhaps the term ‘quiet confidence’ is applicable. A humble confidence that is in our God and Creator, not self. God enabling us to work through His power. No matter your level of confidence-it is not about you. I am an introvert that is quiet, laid back and reserved. The confidence I have is not outwardly expressed. I have been guilty of allowing my personality to direct my spiritual actions by not being bold and confident in sharing a precious gift that has been entrusted to me as a Christian-Jesus Christ. Shame on me! A lifelong work in progress. Blessings in your pursuit…….TO