Taming the E.G.O.

Phil Hodges gave me some good insight into my all-too-frequent lack of gratitude:

He says I need an Ego Check.

E.G.O. – Edging God Out

We as humans are wired for worship. Whether it be God, or stuff, or self, or someone else we will "worship" something.

The object of worship; who or what a person worships —that is, where one finds security and self-worth— is a crucial question.

Phis maintains that when we put self first, we tend to operate out of fear and pride, focused on our own needs and a sense of self-preservation. This often lleads to isolation, distortion and separation.

On the other hand, when we put God first and worship Him -- whwn we find our security and self-worth in Him -- we tend to operate out of confidence and humility...and this often leads to community.

"For everything in the world--the lust of the eyes (cravings of sinful man), the lust of the flesh, and the boastful pride of life (bragging about whate one has and does) comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever." (1 John 2:15-17)

The remedy for "the Enemy's" limited and predictable strategy is:
Lust of the Eyes: instead of focus on one's passions focus on purity.
Lust of the Flesh: instead of focus on possessions ask God for a spirit of generosity.
Pride of Life: instead of pursuing position and titles seek humility.

I find that Phil to be a pretty smart fellow.