“Be not wise in your own conceits.” (Romans 12:16/NIV). The word ‘own’ is from the same Greek word as in 1 Corinthians 13:5: Love “seeketh not her own.” (KJV).

What are you proud of? Some of your pride may be based on achievements. Some may be merely preconceived ideas: “People from my own city are better than others.” Or perhaps: “True humanity is bound up with my own language and colloquialism!”

Ideologies can make you proud. Sometimes this leads to a distorted view of reality. If you only appreciate those, who share your own views, there may be many things you have never thought of.

Family origin may be a source of pride. Cultural issues may make you feel conceited.

As you become a Christian and as you study the bible your views are likely to widen. The Holy Writ guides you to re-evaluate your own views and to learn Christian standards.

Paul here exhorts us: “Be not wise in your own conceits.” (Romans 12:16/NIV). Christians are to set aside questionable notions. A believer is to learn standards of love.

Self-seeking based on distorted views can be a source of trouble to others. Love would never indulge in such attitudes.