I often pray that the Lord would break down the barriers of pride and fear in these men…
…fear of what other prisoners will think of a man if he chooses to become a Christian.
For to come to Christ, a man must admit that he was wrong, that he led a sinful and corrupt life and that, more than likely, he hurt many people by a lifetime of unkind words and cruel actions. To place one's faith in Christ is a big step. It is a decision that will alter the course of a man's soul for all eternity. Therefore, it is very tragic, in the end, that simple human pride will keep multitudes out of Heaven, both prison inmates and those who live outside these walls.
Yes, pride is a great damner of souls. For I have observed that one of the biggest hindrances to more inmates embracing Christianity is the perceived need to be “tough.” Many prisoners work endlessly at creating the image of a tough, hard man. They spend a lot of energy, and even risk their lives, trying to put on that hard exterior. They feel they must “talk tough” and be intimidating. Some strive to develop a reputation as a troublemaker by defying the guards, trying to break the rules, or by even “pushing up” on weaker inmates. They strive to present a certain appearance to their peers and in the process they sacrifice their humanity and choose to become animal-like.
All said, it is pride at work. A man strives to please and impress other men who can give him nothing. In the end he has lost his soul.
D.B.
For to come to Christ, a man must admit that he was wrong, that he led a sinful and corrupt life and that, more than likely, he hurt many people by a lifetime of unkind words and cruel actions. To place one's faith in Christ is a big step. It is a decision that will alter the course of a man's soul for all eternity. Therefore, it is very tragic, in the end, that simple human pride will keep multitudes out of Heaven, both prison inmates and those who live outside these walls.
Yes, pride is a great damner of souls. For I have observed that one of the biggest hindrances to more inmates embracing Christianity is the perceived need to be “tough.” Many prisoners work endlessly at creating the image of a tough, hard man. They spend a lot of energy, and even risk their lives, trying to put on that hard exterior. They feel they must “talk tough” and be intimidating. Some strive to develop a reputation as a troublemaker by defying the guards, trying to break the rules, or by even “pushing up” on weaker inmates. They strive to present a certain appearance to their peers and in the process they sacrifice their humanity and choose to become animal-like.
All said, it is pride at work. A man strives to please and impress other men who can give him nothing. In the end he has lost his soul.
D.B.