By Rev. Dr. Charles R. Watkins, Jr., Senior Columnist

Romans 12:3 says, “For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.” We can easily get ourselves caught up in the pursuit to create an image of self-worth and importance in this world so full of selfishness, particularly as everything seems to be about “me” and “mine.” It is our carnal nature that sets in motion the requirement to feel needed and indispensable. These self-centered emotions feed our ego and nurture our self-image and self-esteem.

I do believe that everyone needs a certain level of pride in “self” as there have been far too many instances of hopelessness brought on by low self-esteem. Unfortunately, this is a result of one yet to discover that they are “fearfully and wonderfully made.” To them, I say, “Gird yourself up because you are made in His image and God’s works are wonderful.”

However, some misguidedly think more highly of themselves than they ought to think. I remind them that “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall” (Proverbs 16:18). Too much pride can throw us off track as we place ourselves on a superficial pedestal. We make ourselves difficult to work with and hard to be around as we become conceited, egotistical, and overconfident. Our ability to work with others depends—to a great degree—on our own outward image. The Bible reminds us that we should make our boast, not in ourselves, but in the Lord. The “meek” has a spirit that seems to agree with most people; a spirit that attracts others.

We are encouraged to think humbly as humility opens our mind to see, not just our own, but others’ needs as well. Humility is the reason we place the needs of others above our own. Humility moves us to possess a more modest perspective of our own importance. Humbly, we know our strength lies in our relationship with the Lord. We should be careful to refrain from overestimating our own capabilities and developing extreme pride and arrogance.
We are challenged to think soberly which is essentially to be serious and thoughtful. There are situations in life that command us to be serious-minded and to exhibit the ability to exercise some critical thinking. Thinking soberly helps us to focus our attention on “the things of God.”

We should think according to the measure of our faith. In other words, we ought to be true worshippers demonstrating a reverence toward God. The exercise of faith through worship actually grows our faith as it calms our nerves, prioritizes our values, and works to bring back our joy. When we submit to God’s command to think humbly, soberly, and to develop our faith, God’s mercy will be magnified and His grace will be glorified.

The Rev. Dr. Charles R. Watkins, Jr., is the pastor of Pine Grove AME.Church in Columbia, South Carolina.