One-Upmanship

In the last days, people will be proud.  

Actually, the Blue Letter Bible has some pretty descriptive explanations for the word “proud” (hyperephanos):

•showing one’s self above others

•overtopping

•conspicuous above others

•pre-eminent 

•with an overweening estimate of one's means or merits

•despising others or treating them with contempt, haughty

…One-Upmanship.  That’s what it all boils down to.  “Someone who does or says something to prove they are better than someone else.”  

Think of this verse like this:  In the last days, there will be plenty of people practicing one-upmanship.  They will be trying to prove they are better than everyone else.  They will put themselves in a better light to be noticed. By doing this, they will try to prove you are “less than” them and that they have greater credentials and should be noticed and patted on the back. 

God says he resists these people.  

“God resists the proud (hyperephanos), but gives grace to the humble.”  James 4:6