For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it?

This verse has a "wow factor" I don't think many people think on this, really think. I didn't even know (or overlooked) it existed in the Bible! But when I did It hit me! Wow, there's nothing in me that it has not be given to me!!!! If I have Faith is because God gave it to me! If I have mercy, compassion, talents, a wonderful husband, my daughters... Do I merit the gifts that God gives me? NO! but nonetheless it has been given to me, not earned, given!! So why belittle someone else?

The following is something I read again and I thought I'll post it on my blog!!

By Amy Carmichael

If, in any way, I belittle those who I am called to serve...

if I talk of their weak points in contrast, perhaps, with what I think of as my stronger points...

if I adopt a superior attitude, forgetting to consider the wisdom of the voice that asks me, inwardly, "Who made you different from the one you are criticizing--and what do you have that you have not been given?"

If I can easily discuss the shortcomings of the sins of any man or woman...

if I can speak in an offhanded way, even of a child's wrongdoing...then I know nothing of Calvary love.

My Father, how often do my words "singe" someone else? (And how much time do I spend thinking critically about another--so that nothing but words that singe come out?)

Today, Lord, work in me. Change the thought-life in me when I strip others of dignity...or reduce them point by point...in order to build myself up.

And give me your voice, to speak words of value...admiration...encouragement... compassion...true kindness.