A Prisoner of Pride

“I will break down your stubborn pride and make the sky above you like iron and the ground beneath you like bronze. Your strength will be spent in vain, because your soil will not yield its crops, nor will the trees of the land yield their fruit.” (Leviticus 26:19-20)

There is a difference between the kind of pride that God hates (See Proverbs 8:13) and the kind of pride we can feel about a job well done. (See Galatians 6:4)  The kind of pride that comes from self-righteousness or conceit is sin, however, and God hates it because it is a hindrance to seeking Him.

To God, pride was so damaging to His people that He vowed to break its power and influence.  To break its hold.  Pride isn’t just somewhat harmful; pride can be devastating.  He warned that “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Proverbs 16:18)  It can dominate our lives, and poison our attitudes.  He promises that mankind will be humbled. (See Isaiah 2:11)

Many people, even believers, are controlled by pride and filled with a proud spirit.  The Bible tells us that, if we want God’s blessings, we must be freed from pride.  We must eliminate all of its influences, submit ourselves to Him, and stay humble before Him.

Yet it can be difficult to retain this humility.  Our focus can quickly shift away from God, and onto ourselves.  It can seem natural to be concerned about our interests and desires.  How easily we can take His blessings for granted, and depend on ourselves.  Instead of serving, we can become possessive and self-centered.

Pride has kept many people from accepting Jesus Christ as Savior.  Admitting sin and acknowledging that in our own strength we can do nothing to inherit eternal life is a constant stumbling block for prideful people.  We are not to boast about ourselves; if we want to boast, then we are to proclaim the glories of God.  

What we say about ourselves means nothing in God’s work.  It is what God says about us that makes the difference.  “For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.” (2 Corinthians 10:18)

It’s those who humbly trust in Him who are in a position to receive His blessing, and this is true in every situation.  Psalm 25:9 reminds us that “He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.”  And “This is the one I esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, and trembles at my word.” (Isaiah 66:2)

As you face the challenges of life, be on guard against pride.  Seek to stay humble before God. And allow Him to be the Lord of your life, and absolutely trust in Him.

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