In the Bible, PRIDE is viewed as a negative trait, associated with arrogance, self-centeredness, and a sense of superiority that leads us to ignore or reject God’s authority. This root of sin causes us to elevate ourselves above others or even above God.
Below are two biblical perspectives on pride:
• Proverbs 16:18: Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.
• James 4:6: God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.
Pride is not humility, which is the biblical attitude for relating to both God and others. Pride distances us from God, humility draws us closer.
These passages warn against sinful pride:
• Proverbs 11:2: When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.
• 1 John 2:16: For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.
Pride is a human struggle that interferes with our spiritual growth and relationship with Christ. These recommendations may guide us to overcome pride and draw closer to the Lord:
• Pray: Ask God to search your heart and reveal where pride is found in your life.
• Confess: Admit to God that you struggle with pride.
• Practice humility: Consider others better than yourself.
• Be open-minded: Understand that there are multiple viewpoints on different situations.
• Focus on God: Focus more on God than you do on yourself.
Let’s try this together, anchor the desire to overcome pride in an existing habit, like our quiet time with the Lord, our prayer life, or time studying the word. If we find accountability in each other, our sinful pride may just lead us to complete humility. We can then step out of the flesh and into His kingdom.
~ Kim Snyder