Retirement – Why Are You Still Working? Is That Really God’s Plan?ಮಾದರಿ

PRIDE: Is That Why You’re Still Working?

Let’s get one thing straight: pride isn’t just a personality quirk. It’s not a “strong work ethic” or a “healthy self-image.” Pride is sin. And it’s sneaky.

Especially in retirement.

You may not feel proud in the obvious sense. But ask yourself:

Why are you holding onto your job? Why are you still working, even though you could have stepped aside by now?

Here’s a clue – when you think about retiring, does it feel like losing something more than a paycheck?

Do you feel like you might lose respect? Relevance? Or identity?

That’s pride talking.

Look at your life: you’ve built a career and earned success at your work. People know you. You make decisions, lead things, maybe even sign off on big deals. People look to you for your opinion.

Now, the thought of walking away feels like giving all that up... like becoming invisible. And deep down, you don’t want that.

But that craving to stay important? That resistance to step away because it makes you feel small? That’s not wisdom. That’s all about you and your desires. It’s not humility, not a servant’s attitude; but instead it’s sin, it’s pride.

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3

Know this: as a Christian created in the image of God, retirement does not and cannot diminish your worth. But it does shift the spotlight. And pride hates that.

Here’s the truth: God is not impressed with your résumé. He’s not clapping for your promotions, your position, or even your corner office. God looks for the servant’s attitude, a surrendered heart, not business status or accomplishments. Remember this:

“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” – James 4:6

The reason pride is so dangerous in this season of life is because it becomes the perfect excuse to avoid God’s will. You don’t want to lead a Bible study because “that’s not your gift.” You don’t volunteer because “you’re more of a strategic thinker.” You don’t want to serve behind the scenes because you used to lead from the front.

Let’s be honest: it’s not about calling or capacity – you just don’t want to look small. You don’t want to feel replaceable. And that fear of irrelevance is feeding your pride, not your purpose.

God is ready to put you to work in this next chapter – not as the senior partner, but as a servant. And if that feels beneath you, then it’s pride that needs to retire, not just you. And doing that comes with a promise:

"For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted." – Matthew 23:12

You had your season in the spotlight. Now it’s time to step off the platform and get with God’s program.

There’s still meaningful work to do. But the first thing you’ll need to lay down is your pride.

Are you willing to do that?