God opposes the proud,
but gives grace to the humble.
—1 Peter 5:5
She was talented but refreshingly others-centered. When she walked into a room, she was delighted that you were there too. Her countenance said, “THERE you are!”
He was talented but nauseatingly self-centered. When he walked into a room, his countenance said, “HERE I am!”
If you are like the lady, exhibiting cheerfulness and humility, you will be loved and welcomed. People will want to be in your presence. And you will have the favor of God: “[He] shows favor to the humble” (Prv 3:34).
If you are like the man, you may be admired for your abilities but will not be a welcome addition to the room. People will not want to be in your presence. Nor will you have the favor of God: “Those who are arrogant are an abomination to the Lord” (Prv 16:5).
Cultivate a “THERE you are!” persona.