Pride goes before destruction,
And a haughty spirit before stumbling.

-Proverbs 16:18 (NASB)

Sometimes, I think the greatest cross a Christian can have to bear is that of a worldly, material nature. With success can often come a spirit of independence that can replace the spirit of dependence upon God. As soon as I remove God from the center of my thoughts and life, I drift into an area that leaves me feeling empty and compels me to return to Him. I guess I should consider myself lucky, as some become very comfortable in their prison of comfort and, ultimately, sin.

Better is a little with the fear of the Lord
Than great treasure and turmoil with it.

-Proverbs 15:16 (NASB)