Proverbs 27:2 (KJV) - Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.

If we're not careful, we can be very prideful. For example, we can find many ways to promote ourselves in the midst of praising the work of another. There is someone I knew several years ago that has entered a new season of ministry. It is similar in some ways to Spiritual Combatants, but we accomplish different purposes.

It so happened that I found some of their work on the Internet. I wanted to write a note of congratulations and blessing for their work and future ministry in the Lord. As I contemplated what to write, I wanted to add my business card with the ministry website to show what I was doing. I even considered writing about Spiritual Combatants, my graduate education, family, etc.

After a few minutes, I thought, 'man, this sound like I'm promoting myself than praising their work.' Yeah...that's what it was. At the core of my reason for writing, I wanted to show them what I'm doing - even so far as displaying my works as better than theirs. It felt like I wanted to show them that with all I went through, God still blessed me.

This is terrible way to think and I feel ashamed to allow my thoughts to run this course. (Father forgive me.) I should NEVER allow myself to EVER consider my work in Christ less or greater than another's. We all have a race to run for Christ and we will each have to answer for our service before the Lord.

Nevertheless, there will be no letter sent. It's better leaving the door of temptation and pride alone - don't go there. I write this a reminder for myself and a warning for you.

Proverbs 16:18 (KJV) - Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

Proverbs 26:12 (KJV) - Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? there is more hope of a fool than of him.

Matthew 23:12 (NIV) - And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.