Traveling Light: Day One
Day 1: Laying Down the Weight of Pride
Devotional
In a world that celebrates self-achievement and independence, we're constantly bombarded with messages telling us to climb higher, achieve more, and rely on our own strength. Yet even those who reach the pinnacle of worldly success often confess to a lingering emptiness that no accomplishment can fill. David understood this paradox deeply. In Psalm 131, he begins with a powerful renunciation of pride: "My heart is not proud, O LORD, my eyes are not haughty." These aren't just poetic words—they represent a profound spiritual posture that challenges our natural inclinations. Pride manifests in many forms. Sometimes it struts confidently, demanding recognition. Other times, it sulks in self-pity, believing we deserve better than what God has given us. Both forms keep us from experiencing the rest God offers. The truth is, pride weighs us down. It places the burden of our significance, security, and satisfaction squarely on our own shoulders—a weight we were never meant to carry. When we insist on being our own savior, we exhaust ourselves trying to prove our worth. Today, consider where pride might be adding unnecessary weight to your journey. Are you striving to prove yourself? Are you resentful of circumstances you believe are beneath you? The invitation of Psalm 131 is to lay these burdens down and experience the lightness that comes with humility.
O Lord, my heart is not lifted up; my eyes are not raised too high;
I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me.
- Psalm 131:1
Reflection Question
In what areas of your life might pride be adding unnecessary weight to your journey, whether through striving for achievement or through resentment of your current circumstances?
"Our culture celebrates pride as a virtue. We baptize it with words like ambition and drive.
We reward it, we promote it, we envy it. But the Word of God cuts through that illusion."
— Pastor Mike Mura
Prayer
Heavenly Father, reveal to me the places where pride has taken root in my heart. Help me to recognize when I'm striving to prove myself or when I'm resentful of my circumstances. Give me the courage to lay down these burdens and embrace the freedom that comes with humility. In Jesus' name, amen.