Spiritual pride
comes in many forms
But the swellings of
spiritual pride, though not hidden
from a discerning eye and a tender conscience, are much
concealed from those very religious people whose 'amazing
humility' and undeviating obedience are ever sending forth a
sweet savor to delight their approving nostrils…The minister is
proud of his able sermons; the deacon of his wise and prudent
government; the church member of his privileges above the rest
of the congregation. Some are proud because they attend to the
ordinances, others because they are not tied up in the yoke of
church discipline; some are proud of the world's contempt, and
others of the world's approbation; some are proud of their
sophistication and culture, and others of their vulgarity; some
of their learning, and not a few of their lack of it; some of
their boldness to reprove, and others of their readiness to
forgive; some of their amiability, and others of their
austerity; some because others think well of them, and others
because nobody thinks well of them but themselves...Thus,
as some weeds flourish in every soil, and
some animals feed on every food, so does pride flourish in every
heart, and feast on every kind of food.
- J.C. Philpot
