READ: 2 Kings 23-25; Proverbs 16; John 16: 1-15
SCRIPTURE: Proverbs 16: 18 Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.
OBSERVATION: The Bible often speaks about the dangers of pride. Pro.16:18 is one of the oft-quoted verses in the Bible; Christians use it to warn and admonish others. In the history of humanity, we can see many records that say how great kings and rulers lost everything they had because of their pride. We know that the original sin or the first sin of Adam and Eve was related to the pride of life. Before the first man's fall, as the Bible says, Lucifer lost his esteemed position because of his pride (Is.14:12-15). This page would be insufficient to mention all the names of people who lost their glory because of their pride. The Bible categorically speaks against man’s pride. No verse in the Bible supports human pride or arrogance.
We can see the different forms of pride such as national pride, social pride, religious pride, pride about achievements and possessions, and so on. It seems the world did not learn a lesson about pride from its history. Some people think that pride comes from Satan. Of course, it is true. However, he never comes directly to instill pride in a person’s life. Many people fall into the trap of pride by seeing their talents, successes, achievements, social and educational status. Mostly, pride does not allow a person to know the ground reality of life, as s/he has inordinate self-esteem about himself/herself. People reject God and abuse fellow human beings because of their pride. Even in our times, we see the deplorable end of many proud people. While the Bible clearly warns us against pride, it calls us to humility in our daily lives. Apostle Peter writes, “All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble’” (1 Peter 5:5).
APPLICATION: The Bible says many narratives about how God lifted up people who were once lowly and undesirable. Jesus’ life is the perfect example of a humble life that pleases God. I may have many spiritual and worldly gifts and talents. However, if I am not humble and loving, it will benefit none. God expects me to walk humbly with him (Micah 6:8). Apart from love and humility, What else does he expect from me?
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for keeping many signposts against pride, in the scripture. Help me to see and accept the truth in the light of the Bible. Lord, protect me from any forms of human pride. You have called me for eternal life to live, not to die in my pride. Jesus, help me to follow your footsteps. Amen.
- Arputharaj Samuel
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Day - 167
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