There was a time in history that the very controversial, offensive and derogatory term, uppity was used quite frequently. The word was used in some instances to put Blacks in their place or to bring them down. During the 1950’s and during the Jim Crow era, Blacks were often referred to as uppity if they advanced themselves and were able to purchase items that some folk thought might have been beyond their means. It was a way of letting Blacks know that they were supposed to maintain a subservient attitude in society. In simple terms, it was a way in letting Blacks know they were “too big for their britches.” It was a reminder that we needed to get off of our high horses and live as if we were inferior.

When Michelle Obama came on the scene, many referred to her as being an uppity Black woman. It wasn’t that she was uppity, rather a classy lady of intelligence who did not stoop to the level of those who criticized her or her family.  She is articulate, fashionable, humble, witty, charismatic and all the other positive attributes that can be applied to a beautiful lady. She was described as being uppity because she could converse and compete with the best of women and men when it came to matters related to politics or any other subject. Some even suggested she run for the president of the United States.  She is a sophisticated woman who did not take any mess off of mean-spirited people. Let’s be for real and face the fact that she was considered uppity by some because she was confident and assertive when challenged.   

The Oxford Dictionary defines uppity as self-important; arrogant.

In reality, some folk can be considered uppity because of the way they carry themselves. They give the impression that they are better than others. They seem to have a superiority complex and carry themselves with their noses stuck up in the air. You get the impression that they look down on common everyday people. You might say they are arrogant, pompous, conceited and too big headed for their own good.

It has been said that there are two types of Christians, holier than though and uppity Christians. Holier than though Christians give the impression that they are spiritually better than others. They may even make you feel like they are the only persons going to heaven and everybody else is going to hell. They may speak in tongues and other unknown languages that sometimes sends the wrong message. Don’t misinterpret what I am saying, for speaking in tongues is a gift from God, but do not use it to belittle others. Uppity Christians may be those who intentionally arrive to church late with a chip on their shoulders and may be thinking, look at me. The focus is on him or her rather than on God and worship. They think they are better than others because of the positions they hold in the church and in society. What believers must understand is that all of us are on equal footing when it comes to Christianity.    

If we were to consider a church in the Bible as being uppity and holier than though, it would be the Corinthians who considered themselves more spiritual and socially better than anyone else. They even considered themselves more spiritual than the Apostle Paul.

James 4:6 tells us: “But he gives us more grace. God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”

I write this because it seems as if we have forgotten how to treat our brothers and sisters in this country. It seems as if some consider themselves superior to others and will do anything to divide us. We know that Matthew 23:12 says, “For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”      

The Bible warns us against looking down on those who are in a lower social position. Romans 12:16 says, “Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of all positions.”   

May we all pray that the entire nation will regain its sense of compassion for all peoples.

Just my thoughts!

Robert Earl Slade, Pastor