READ: 2 Samuel 22:26-28
«An high look, and a proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked, is sin.» - Proverbs 21:4

And went again into the judgment hall, and saith unto Jesus, Whence art thou? But Jesus gave him no answer. Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee? Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin. - John 19:9-11

Pontius Pilate mistakenly told Jesus that he had power to arrest him and power to release him. But Jesus rightly pointed out to him that he would have no power unless God had given it to him. In other words he actually had no power ! Watch out for people who make over confident declarations about who they are and what they can do.

All the abilities that you have are God-given talents and abilities. You must be careful to acknowledge this reality. All the abilities that you have are God-given talents and abilities. You must be careful to acknowledge this reality. Any declaration that leaves out or forgets the divine factor is an over confident declaration of pride.

Some years ago, I had a pastor leaving the pastoral staff. Among the many things he said was one outstanding statement. He said, «I will show you church growth in six months.» In other words, «I will show you how I can make a church grow very quickly, in six months.» That was indeed an over confident declaration. Dear friend, remember the Scripture,

«I planted, Apollos watered but God gave the increase.» 1 Corinthians 3:6

God is the only one who can show us church growth in six months !