The Self Made Man
Paul was not “a self made man,” for he said, “I can do all things through Christ that strengtheneth me.” That was his claim, and it is in pleasing contrast with those individuals whose boast is that their successful careers are monuments of their own endeavor. Crowned with pride, clothed with the tattered rags of self-righteous egotism, with garments a patch work of shabby gentility, such men divide their worship between their unworthy selves and the idol of Mammon which they draw in their train. The track over which they glide in such confident security is slippery and treacherous. Based simply upon reputation it is full of breaks and seams into which any moment the unsuspecting egotist may plunge.
Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. Prov. 16:18.