American culture emphasis self confidence, self assurance and self focus. Advertisements and slogans reinforce our narcissism; "If it feels good, do it. If you want it, buy it. If it advances you, move forward regardless of the affect on others. Life is about feeling good."
James warns that this attitude puts us in a position of conflict with God (James 4:4-6). God resists the proud.
Do we honestly want God to be as a brick wall toward our prayers? Do we want God working against us? Do we want to face life without God intervening?
No, thank you!
