Arrogance

Arrogance is rampant in our culture, which promotes attitudes of “be your best self” and “look out for number one.” Even in our churches, humility is often lacking in leadership. In this week’s Brite lesson, kids learn how Saul’s arrogance led him to do things his way instead of God’s way. Have frank conversations with your kids about what might cause them to be prideful or about situations in which they may think their way is better than God’s. Encourage them to think of examples of people they know who show humility instead of arrogance. Focus on the difference between living as if God is King and the lifestyles typically portrayed in their social media feeds or favorite channels.

Here’s how we discussed this topic and how you can discuss it at home: 

Discuss: What does the word “arrogant” mean?

Discuss: What would an arrogant person be like?

Discuss: What does God have to say about this?

Say: It can be hard not to feel prideful when the world we live in constantly tells us that we should do whatever makes us happy and that our way is most important. When we become arrogant, we may feel it makes more sense to choose our own way and not God’s. Sometimes we may think that our way is best and that what we want is most important. This is what happened to Saul in today’s story and we see a lot of attitudes of arrogance in our culture today. Proverbs 16:18 says: Pride goes before destruction,  and a haughty spirit before a fall. Saul also experienced this truth! God cares about our attitude and our heart. He doesn’t want us to just do the right things but rather to have a heart of joy, faithfulness and humility as we seek to obey Him. God loves us so much and wants the very best for us. When we feel our pride telling us to choose our own way, we can remember that God is the one true King and His way is best.