DailyIns: Ego vs Confidence

Ego: A person’s sense of self-esteem or self-importance, often inflated or self-centred.

Confidence: A feeling or belief that one can rely on someone or something; firm trust. It is a self-assurance arising from an appreciation of one’s abilities or qualities.

1. Proverbs 16:18 – “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”
2. Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

Ego and Its Dangers: Ego is often associated with an inflated sense of self-importance and can lead to destructive behaviours and attitudes. Proverbs 16:18 warns us that pride and a haughty spirit can lead to downfall. This verse teaches us the dangers of letting ego dominate our actions and decisions, as it often results in negative consequences.

Confidence and Its Benefits: Confidence, on the other hand, is grounded in a realistic assessment of one’s abilities and trust in God’s support. Philippians 4:13 highlights that true confidence comes from relying on God’s strength rather than our own. This verse encourages us to have confidence rooted in faith and humility, recognising that our abilities and successes are gifts from God.

Differences Between Ego and Confidence:

• Self-Centred vs. God-Centred: Ego focuses on self-glorification, while confidence is grounded in humility and trust in God.
• Inflated vs. Realistic: Ego often involves an exaggerated view of one’s abilities, whereas confidence is based on a realistic and accurate self-assessment.
• Destructive vs. Constructive: Ego can lead to arrogance and conflict, while confidence fosters positive relationships and constructive outcomes.

How to Cultivate Confidence Over Ego: By grounding our confidence in faith and a realistic understanding of our abilities, we can avoid the pitfalls of ego. True confidence is characterised by humility, gratitude, and a recognition of our dependence on God.

Practical Steps to Develop Confidence and Avoid Ego:

1. Practice Humility: Regularly remind yourself of your limitations and the contributions of others. Recognise that your abilities are gifts from God.
2. Seek Feedback: Be open to constructive criticism and feedback from others. This helps to maintain a realistic view of your abilities.
3. Focus on Growth: Prioritise personal growth and learning over seeking validation and praise from others.
4. Trust in God: Place your trust in God’s strength and guidance rather than relying solely on your own abilities.
5. Celebrate Others: Encourage and uplift others, recognising their achievements and contributions.

May today’s focus on “Ego vs Confidence” inspire you to cultivate true confidence grounded in humility and faith. Remember that by trusting in God and recognising your abilities as gifts, you can avoid the pitfalls of ego and lead a more fulfilling and impactful life.

“Confidence is not ‘they will like me’. Confidence is ‘I’ll be fine if they don’t’.”

– Christina Grimmie