Have you ever made a rock? And how about a stick? Have you ever made one of those? Well, what about a drop of water? Surely you’ve at least made a drop of water in your life. And surely, somewhere, there’s a school science class where that has happened. Naturally, I don’t expect anyone to create a river. But surely at least one, single drop of water shouldn’t be that hard to do.
And if someone HAS made a drop of water, imagine how proud they are.
I can almost see the headline: Whiz Kid Invents World’s First Drop Of Water In A Laboratory
Yeah, that whiz kid’s gonna be able to boast about that street cred for a long time.
OK, a rock, a stick, and water seem like simple things. But no whiz kid on earth can make even a grain of sand or a seed. Because only God can make those things.
And I bet you’re fine with that. Right? I’m sure you don’t mope around wishing you could invent dirt and stuff. Because it’s a lot more fun throwing rocks, lying in the sand, and splashing in the water. Especially on hot summer days.
But, if you COULD invent a drop of water, everybody would wanna be your friend. And before you knew it, you could brag about how you have a million friends. And think about how proud that might make you feel.
But you gotta watch out for that proud part.
Because that’s where a lotta trouble starts.
So, maybe you’re not a science whiz kid. But let’s say win a running race. Or you paint a picture that wins first place at the art chow. Or maybe you write a hit song people love to listen to on the radio. Nothin’ wrong with any of that. But I recommend you don’t get all caught up in being proud of yourself.
It’s a much better idea to thank the Lord that He gave you strong legs to win the race. Or thank Him for giving you the talent and good eyes to paint a beautiful picture. Or good ears and skills to write music.
After all, God was the one who created you. He designed your muscles and bones and eyes and ears. He gave you a brain. And He gave your brain the power to think your own thoughts. Dream your own dreams. And even sing your own songs. No, you wouldn’t have any of those things without Him.
So, God must love you a lot to make so many wonderful things for you to enjoy. Right?
And just so you know, it’s fine for others who love you to be proud of you. They wanna see you do good and awesome things. Because that means you’re growing and getting better and better at what they helped you learn how to do.
But don’t forget. You didn’t invent art and music, or even that one drop of water I mentioned earlier. And you certainly didn’t invent YOU. So, stay humble. Don’t fall into the pride and proud trap.
Remember, there ARE some things God hates. And at the top of His list is “a proud look.”
So, my hope for you, today, is that you’ll go do some great things. AND give thanks to God.
And here’s a rhyme to help you remember:
If you’re proud of yourself for the things you do,
Pretty soon no one wants to be around you,
‘Cause you’ll sound just like an old clanging bell
That is out of tune and doesn’t ring so well.
Give a nod to God with a thankful prayer.
Let Him know you’re glad that He’s always there.
And be glad for the gifts that He’s given you.
It’s because of Him you can do what you do.
Before you go, jump on the The FunderFlash. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.
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