Research shows that humility improves our mental health; however, we can’t turn on the tv, view social media or get through a day in June without seeing the 🌈 emblazoned word PRIDE posted everywhere as something to revel in and celebrate.
🚩Unfortunately, humility is not a character trait celebrated in our current selfie loving, “me, me, me” culture, but research shows it may deserve more focus and attention as this personal quality has been found to have positive impacts on one’s perceived happiness and psychological well-being.
While this post is not to discuss or debate the pride movement in relation to sexuality or self-identity, its purpose is to zero-in on how a Christian should view both pride and humility from a Biblical perspective concerning psychological and spiritual well-being.
˗ˏˋ ✞ ˎˊ˗ God warns us throughout the Bible to avoid pride.
˗ˏˋ ✞ ˎˊ˗ Jesus was the perfect example of humility.
˗ˏˋ ✞ ˎˊ˗ Christ-followers strive to be humble not prideful.
Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent mental health diagnoses world-wide.
Researchers have found a link between anxiety and self-preoccupation.
- Folks who overanalyze their thoughts, feelings, past actions or perceived status or flaws will experience a cycle of excessive worry, self-doubt and fear that can become overwhelming.
- When we rely on the pride of own accomplishments, self-identity or abilities to bring us peace and joy, what happens to our sense of self when we eventually fail?
- While it’s normal and healthy to feel a sense of pride, reveling in pride distances us from God while simultaneously thrusting us in a state of self-focus and self-reliance where the pain of our inevitable psychological shortcomings can be magnified.
- Folks who actively shift their focus off of self and humble themselves before leaning on His promises and truth, can break the negative cycles of self-preoccupation and anxiety to attain God’s full blessings and perfect peace.
🎯In summary, Proverbs 16:18 states “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” Christians should heed God’s warnings in relation to pride and strive to practice humility in order to be at our best psychologically but most importantly, in the sight of our Lord.
READ & REFLECT:
Isaiah 26:3: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”
James 4:6 … “But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.”
1 Peter 5:6: “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time…”
Nicole—a licensed professional counselor and devoted Christ‑follower—is the heart and voice behind A Sound Mind Counselor, a space devoted to nurturing mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness through Scripture. Drawing on a unique blend of clinical expertise and spiritual insight, she offers faith‑based guidance rooted in God’s Word to help readers renew their minds, restore their souls, and revive their spirits.
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