“But God gives us more and more grace, just as the Scriptures say: ‘God is against those who are proud, but he gives grace to the humble.’” James 4:6
Hey Future Leader! Do you ever feel like sometimes you just can’t get along with your friends, or maybe you keep getting into trouble for arguing with your parents?
The problem might not be your friends, or even your parents. It might be a sneaky boss inside your heart called Pride!
Pride is like a sneaky virus that makes you think you’re the King or Queen of everything. But the Bible says God is against those who are proud! If you want God’s favor and blessings, we have to keep checking our hearts for pride.
Here are 7 “King/Queen Checks” to spot pride and grow strong in humility:
1. The Super-Solo Check (Prayerlessness)
Do you try to handle everything by yourself? If you start your day, your homework, or your game without stopping to talk to God, that’s pride! It says, “I don’t need help!”. Fix: Talk to God all the time, not just when you’re in mega-trouble.
2. The Knowing-Better Check (Disobedience)
Does Mom or Dad tell you to put away your tablet, but you keep playing anyway? That’s pride! Disobedience is when you know the rules but choose your own way instead. Fix: Choose God’s way first!
3. The Arguing Check (Strife)
Do you get into lots of fights or arguments with your brother, sister, or friends? Strife and contention often mean pride is stirring things up. Fix: Be the first one to say, “I’m sorry,” even if it’s hard.
4. The Shade-Throwing Check (Judging)
Do you look at another kid and think, “I’m smarter/nicer/faster than them”? Judging others is a sign of pride. Fix: Remember, God made everyone special!
5. The No-Listening Check (Rejection of Correction)
Does your coach or teacher try to help you, but you get mad and ignore them? Refusing correction shows pride and can lead to big problems. Fix: Listen up! Correction helps you grow!
6. The Better-Than Check (Comparison)
Do you always compare your stuff or your grades to others? Pride makes you feel like you are holier, stronger, or richer. Fix: Remember, God gives all gifts and talents; they aren’t earned by human effort.
7. The My-Stuff Check (Ingratitude)
Do you forget to say thank you for your gifts or your abilities? Pride makes you think your stuff came from you. Fix: Look at everything good—your home, your friends, your brain—and say thank you to God! That is the secret way to combat pride.
🙏 Simple Prayer: The Humble Heart
Dear God,
Thank you for all the good things in my life. I confess I try to be King/Queen sometimes. Please forgive my pride. Help me pass the King/Queen Checks today! I choose humility and gratitude. I know You give grace to those who are humble.
Amen.
Oak Tree Kids 
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