The Problem of Overconfidence
Don’t let overconfidence lead to a fall
It is good to have assurance of your relationship with God. A relationship built on faith in the person of Jesus and his sacrifice for us. But Paul raises a warning against overconfidence here.
So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! (1 Corinthians 10:12 NIV)
You might see this verse as relating to the loss of salvation, but I do not believe that is really what Paul is referring to here. Instead, I believe he is referring to falling into sin, into a habit or way of life that is harmful to your spiritual life and service to God.
I see two different ways that this could happen. The first is that in thinking I am strong, I no longer depend on God’s strength. I spend less and less time seeking his will and purpose in my life, along with the strength and wisdom to follow it through. I may not fall into sin. But I do fall away from closeness and dependence on the Lord.
The second can often be an outgrowth of the first. We become confident in our own strength and ability to stand firm in the spiritual battle we are fighting (Eph. 6:10–13). And as a result, we let down our guard. Our overconfidence blinds us to the dangers we face. And we fall into that very sin we thought we were immune to.
Trust in the Lord
It is important for us to recognize that we are never strong enough to stand on our own. We should always live in dependence on the one who is strong enough to hold us securely. And wise enough to guide us through each day.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5–6 NIV)
