Ego: The Battle Between Self and Christ
Ego is an excessive focus on oneself and reveals with such a person being conceited, preoccupied with their own self-image, having an
inflated view of themselves and their importance (Rom 12:3; 2 Cor 10:12). It represents the self-centered nature that seeks its own glory
rather than God's, creating a barrier to authentic relationship with Christ. The ego constantly demands attention, validation and
acknowledgement, leading to pride and spiritual blindness. Understanding and addressing ego is essential for genuine Christian growth, as
it conflicts with the call to humility and self-denial that lies at the heart of following Jesus.
The Problem of Egotism
Ego is who we think we are. The soul is who we really are. The Bible is true, "Pride goes before a fall" (Prov 16:18). Satan made repeated
boastful claims about promoting himself – God dealt severely with this, the ultimate ego out-of-control (Isa 14:12-15). When early
civilisation said, "Let's make a name for ourselves", God soon put a stop to that wrong attitude (Gen 11:1-10). Haman's boasting was short
lived, leading to his downfall and death (Est 5:11-12, 7:10). Immediately after King Nebuchadnezzar had declared, I have built this "by my
power and for the glory of my majesty" he also was humbled (Dan 4:28-37).
Egotism is an excessive focus on oneself and reveals with such a person being conceited, preoccupied with their own self-image, having an inflated view of themselves and their importance (Rom 12:3; 2 Cor 10:12). Self is the ungodly focus of society today with contentment considered only achieved by satisfying its desires. Although we are to have good self-esteem and value our worth, this should not be overtly displayed; the warning of Jesus is "whoever exalts himself will be humbled" so have a humility of spirit as "God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble" (Prov 8:13; Mt 23:12; Jas 4:6; 1 Pet 5:5). The statement "He must increase, but I must decrease" (Jn 3:30) expresses the essence of humility.
Making Him Famous
While it is good to have goals, our motives as Christians should be to make Him famous, for we are just the channel or vessel used
(Ps 115:1; 1 Cor 1:31; Gal 6:14). When we have submitted and co-operated in what He has achieved, do not confuse His goodness with personal
greatness; rather view it as we have had the privilege of participating in God's work.
Clearly, an inflated ego and its focus on self are contrary to the attitude of humility Christians are to have, where the emphasis is to be on love for God and the concerns of others rather than putting ourselves first (Mk 12:30-31; Lk 9:23). Yet Jesus said this is the way to real life (Lk 9:24).
Reflection and Application:
- Examine your motives – are you seeking personal recognition or God's glory?
- Practice humility by putting others before yourself in daily situations.
- Identify areas where pride may be hindering your spiritual growth.
- Commit to making Christ famous through your words and actions.
See also: boast, channel, cross, humility, pride, self, self-image, superior, vanity.