Swimming upstream.
Running against the wind.
One step forward, two steps back.

This is a difficult way to make progress.

But as of late, this is how my journey has felt.

At first, I didn’t understand why, but this past week I was reminded of a simple truth that clearly explains my struggle…

God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.
1 Peter 5:5

Simply stated: God stands not on the side of those who have pride.

And the truth is, I have been prideful.

I have been harboring an attitude which can be characterized by statements like:

I know it all.
I have all the answers.
I have nothing left to learn.

And in light of the statement above made by the Apostle Peter, I am not surprised by the opposition I have been feeling.

God does not show favor to those who are filled with pride. He opposes them.

Therefore,

I must remain teachable.
I must remember how inexperienced I really am.
I must recognize the tremendous value that others can add to my life.

I must humble myself.

Or face the alternative:

A life absent of God’s favor.