top of page

Seen, But Not Exalted

Experiencing the Tension between Excellence and Ego

We all have moments when our talents shine — in the workplace, in ministry, in relationships. And it’s natural to feel proud of what we’ve accomplished. But sometimes, in the midst of success, we forget something vital: the gift didn’t originate with us.

 

Recently, I found myself in a situation at work. I was confident in my IT and Project Management abilities, but someone less skilled in this area (not necessarily in others areas, just to clarify) began twisting things to make me look bad. It was frustrating. I felt tempted to compare, to defend, to prove. But then came a gentle but clear conviction and I realised I was beginning to believe the gift came from me, not from God. That subtle shift was leading me into spiritual imbalance — what Scripture calls iniquity.

download.png

Self-righteousness doesn’t always announce itself. Sometimes it shows up as frustration, comparison, or the need to be seen. But the New Covenant invites us to a better way — one of humility, grace, and surrender.

 

“.....What do you have that you did not receive?.....” — 1 Corinthians 4:7

 

When we remember that our talents are entrusted to us, not earned by us, we begin to walk in freedom. We stop striving and start stewarding. We stop judging and start extending grace.

 

Humility isn’t weakness — it’s clarity. It’s the posture that says:

  • “I am gifted, but the gift is not mine.”

  • “I am capable, but the capacity came from God.”

  • “I am seen, but I don’t need to be exalted.”

​

This shift doesn’t just change how we see ourselves — it changes how we treat others. Even those who frustrate us. Even those who misunderstand us.

 

After seeing this, the next day I was scheduled to meet with this individual and three others. Normally, I would have felt completely unsettled — anxious, defensive, maybe even resentful. But something had shifted. Because God had worked in my heart, I entered that meeting with peace.

​

And the result?

 

It was an absolute success! 

​

I had resisted the temptation to pride. Instead of reacting, I responded. I was able to direct the conversation with love, grace, and humility — reflecting the heart of our wonderful God. The tension dissolved, and clarity emerged.

 

Not because I was clever, but because I was surrendered.

 

If you’ve ever felt the tension between excellence and ego, you’re not alone. The invitation isn’t to diminish your gift — it’s to honor the Giver.

 

Ask yourself:

  • Am I holding this gift with open hands?

  • Can I respond to others with grace, even when it’s hard?

  • Is my heart resting in God’s affirmation, or striving for my own?

​

Let’s walk humbly, love deeply, and remember: the gift is not ours to boast in — it’s ours to steward.

 

 

 

bottom of page