There is a saying that goes “it’s better to rule in hell, than to serve in Heaven.” I don’t think people really understand what hell is like if that’s something someone would proudly say. Hubris is a crazy thing and I’ve taken a few lumps because of it over the years. There is no ruler in hell, it was created for Satan and his angels for eternal punishment, The lake of fire is not a place you’d ever want to be. The pride of life has us making choices so contradictory to God’s will for us, and we proudly proclaim these things like its good. I say “we” because I am not exempt from making prideful decisions. In a world that often glorifies individualism and pride, it’s easy to lose sight of the profound value of love. Yet, the timeless wisdom encapsulated in the phrase “it’s better to live for love than to die for pride” speaks volumes about what truly matters in life. Let’s explore why prioritizing love over pride can lead to a more meaningful and fulfilling existence.

“Pride goes before destruction, and haughtiness before a fall.  Better to live humbly with the poor than to share plunder with the proud.” -Proverbs 16: 18-19-

Pride, while often portrayed as a virtue, can be a double-edged sword. It’s natural to take pride in one’s accomplishments, heritage, or identity. However, when pride morphs into arrogance, stubbornness, or a refusal to admit fault, it becomes a barrier to authentic connection and growth. Pride can lead to isolation, conflict, and missed opportunities for empathy and understanding, which is exactly what the devil wants. On the other hand, love is a universal language that transcends boundaries and enriches our lives in countless ways. Whether it’s the love between husband and wife, family members, friends, or humanity as a whole, love has the power to heal, unite, and uplift. Living for love means prioritizing compassion, empathy, and kindness in our interactions with others. It means choosing forgiveness over resentment, understanding over judgment, and generosity over selfishness. This is the love that Jesus spoke about, this is love He displayed, this is the love he died for.

“Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.” -Proverbs 3: 3-4-

When we prioritize love over pride, we open ourselves up to deeper connections and richer experiences. Instead of seeking validation through external achievements or status, we find fulfillment in nurturing meaningful relationships and making a positive impact on the lives of others, as God intended. Love encourages us to celebrate each other’s successes, support each other through challenges, and cherish the moments we share together. Moreover, living for love allows us to cultivate qualities such as humility, vulnerability, and gratitude. It requires us to acknowledge our imperfections and embrace the beauty of our shared humanity. Rather than viewing vulnerability as a weakness, we recognize it as a strength that allows us to forge genuine connections with others. Through fellowship, group bible studies, and most importantly prayer. Loving like God can become the driving force that seeps into future generations.

“This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” -John 15: 12-13-

Choosing love over pride doesn’t mean abandoning self-respect or personal boundaries. It’s about finding a balance between honoring our own needs and desires which should align with God’s will for us, while also prioritizing the well-being and happiness of those around us. Love empowers us to stand up for what is right, speak out against injustice, and advocate for the rights and dignity of all people.

In the grand tapestry of life, love is the thread that binds us all together. It’s the essence of our existence and the foundation upon which we build our communities, our societies, and our world. While pride may offer fleeting moments of satisfaction, it is love that sustains us through life’s trials and triumphs, guiding us toward a more meaningful and purposeful existence.

Once again thank you for taking time out your busy schedule to read this today. I truly appreciate you. I pray that you were encouraged by what you read. God bless, and don’t forget to keep “Chasing God’s Way/ve.”