I once got in a wee bit of trouble with a brother when I said I was "proud" of a certain group of folks for their attitude and commitment. His objection was that the Bible says we shouldn't be full of pride. That brief discussion made me realize there needs to be some teaching on this matter.
Is there any any distinction made between being puffed up with pride and being proud of something or someone? Consider these points:
- There is no doubt that being "puffed up" with a haughty sense of pride is condemned by the word of God (cf. Proverbs 21:4; Habakkuk 2:4; Luke 18:11).
- There is a sense in which we can rightfully praise a group or individual for their character or accomplishments. Consider the manner in which Paul began most of his God-breathed epistles to the churches of Christ in the first century (cf. Philippians 1:1-11; Colossians 1:1-8; 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10). This amounts to paying someone a compliment.
Certainly, when we do recognize others for their accomplishments, character, or service, we should emulate the apostle's method of recognizing in truth that ultimately the glory belongs to the Lord. Pride becomes a problem when it seeks to elevate oneself above others. On more rare occasions, pride may even be an issue when it comes to our children, grandchildren, or some other close family member.
Someone has said, "Pride is a good thing to have. Be sure, however, it is the kind that keeps your chin up and not your nose."
I would say that sums it up rather well.
r2
