Wednesday, February 25 Let the one who thinks he is standing beware that he does not fall.​—1 Cor. 10:12.

[Tish Hues]

Wednesday, February 25

Let the one who thinks he is standing beware that he does not fall.—1 Cor. 10:12.

 

Likely, we can rid ourselves completely of some imperfect tendencies. But we might find that other inclinations continue to give us trouble. Consider the case of the apostle Peter. He gave in to fear of man when he denied Jesus three times. (Matt. 26:69-75) Peter seemed to have overcome that fear when he gave a bold witness before the Sanhedrin. (Acts 5:27-29) However, some years later, “fearing those of the circumcised class,” he temporarily stopped eating with Gentile Christians. (Gal. 2:11, 12) Peter’s fear had returned. Perhaps he was never completely free of it. We might find ourselves in a similar situation. However, we can resist a persistent tendency by following Jesus’ counsel to “keep on the watch.” (Matt. 26:41) Even when you feel strong, continue to avoid situations that can lead to temptation. Keep applying the strategies that brought you success.—2 Pet. 3:14. w24.07 18-19 ¶17-19

[dljbsp]

Notice the phrase “thinks he is standing.” The danger is not instability. The danger is perceived stability.

We begin to measure strength by recent performance.
A temptation resisted. 'I changed the channel! Not going to watch that.'
A reaction controlled. 'Traffic no longer frustrates me.'
A season of calm. 'My wife and I are so much closer. Our marriage is tight. Nothing can ruin this'

None of those are wrong. In fact, they are evidences of growth. But growth can quietly mutate into self-trust.

A structure can appear firm when no wind is blowing. The absence of visible stress is not proof of anchoring. Foundations are tested by pressure, not by stillness. We may feel steady simply because circumstances have been favorable. Remove the pressure, and stability can be mistaken for maturity.

The most reliable footing is not confidence in progress; it is humility in the present. Standing shows itself not by yesterday’s victories, but by today’s reliance.