The Undercover Adventist

  The Fine Line Between Pride and Purpose Scripture Focus: Mark 12:31; 1 Timothy 3:1; James 1:17 Pride is one of those words that can feel confusing. In everyday language, we say things like, “I’m proud of you,” and we mean something good—affirmation, encouragement, even love. But in the biblical sense, pride takes on a very different meaning. It’s not about appreciation; it’s about elevation—lifting ourselves above where we belong and, often, above others or even above God. So, can pride ever be positive? Not in the way Scripture defines it. The Bible consistently warns us about pride because it shifts the focus from God to ourselves. It tempts us to take credit for what we’ve been given rather than recognizing the Giver. Yet, this doesn’t mean we’re supposed to ignore growth, excellence, or the good things in our lives. There’s a difference between recognizing God’s work in you and replacing God with yourself. Jesus gives us a helpful anchor in Mark 12:31: “Love your neighb...

  “Show Me Your Glory” Exodus 33:18–23 In Exodus 33, Moses does something bold—he asks God, “Show me Your glory.” After leading Israel through the wilderness, after hearing God’s voice and receiving His law, Moses still longed for something deeper: to truly know God’s heart and character. It was not a request for power, position, or privilege—it was a cry for intimacy with God. God’s Answer to Moses God responded in a remarkable way. He said: “I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the LORD, in your presence… But,” He added, “you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live.” (Ex. 33:19–20). Instead of displaying raw, overwhelming power, God revealed His goodness , His mercy, and His compassion. He placed Moses in the cleft of the rock, covering him with His hand, allowing Moses to see only the afterglow of His glory. God’s glory, then, was not fire and thunder—it was His character of love and grace. Glory and the Witness t...