The leaven of pride

(Thomas Reade, "Christian Experience")

The leaven of pride is not wholly eradicated, even in the bosom of the humble Christian.

There are seasons when it works with painful violence; and then, the darkness of our minds, and the deadness of our hearts, indicate that the Holy Spirit is grieved, and that Satan has gained an advantage over us.

Spiritual pride is a subtle evil!

It slides into our prayers, and entwines itself about our praise.

It spoils our best duties, and creates that fondness for human approbation, which puffs up the heart, and steals it away from God.