‘And Samuel rose early to meet Saul in the morning. And it was told Samuel, ‘Saul came to Carmel, and behold, he set up a monument for himself and turned and passed on and went down to Gilgal.'” (1 Samuel 15:12 ESV).
This moment reveals Saul’s heart more than his words. Though commanded by God to completely destroy the Amalekites and all they possessed, Saul only partially obeys. After his selective obedience, he then travels to Carmel and sets up a monument—not to the Lord, but for himself. Saul’s pride has fully surfaced. Once hesitant and hiding among baggage when first chosen as king, he now exalts himself as though the victory were his alone. His journey from insecurity to arrogance shows us that low self-esteem is not humility, but another form of self-centeredness. Whether we think too highly or too poorly of ourselves, the focus remains on self. Saul’s monument was more than a pile of stones—it was a public display of a heart that sought man’s approval over God’s.
True character is often revealed in moments of success as much, or more, than even in failure. Saul’s disobedience and self-exaltation challenge us to examine our own hearts. Do we obey partially while convincing ourselves we are doing enough? Do we crave recognition for what God has done through us? We must resist the urge to build monuments for ourselves, whether they are literal achievements or subtle boasts. Instead of seeking approval from others, let us anchor our identity in who God says we are. We are not defined by our accomplishments or insecurities, but by our relationship with Christ. As children of God, we are fully known, deeply loved, and called to walk humbly with Him. The healthiest view of self is not self-esteem but Christ-esteem. When we see ourselves through His eyes, pride and self-doubt lose their grip.
PRAYER: Dear Father, forgive us for the ways we have made much of ourselves rather than much of You. We confess that sometimes we crave recognition, approval, or status. Other times we wallow in insecurity, still centering on ourselves. Help us to see ourselves as You see us—redeemed, chosen, and called to obey. Teach us to walk in humility, not thinking too highly or too lowly of ourselves, but rightly—according to Your truth. May our lives point to Your glory and not our own. In Jesus’ name, amen.