Proverbs 16:18(NLT)
Pride goes before destruction, and haughtiness before a fall.
Pride is the most dangerous and destructive character trait anyone can possess. It is a major factor in the abortion of destiny (Isaiah 14:12-15, Genesis 3:5). Pride makes a person too puffed to be instructed. And where there is no instruction, there is mediocrity and stagnation. Pride is a major limitation to destiny fulfilment. The lifestyle of pride and arrogance is one of the easiest ways to crash in life. No matter how loaded our potentials are, if we walk in pride, we do not have a future. It is written in James 4:6 ……….. “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Viewing ourselves in the mirror of self-importance reflects a distorted image. Self-elevation positions us for a fall.
Our privileged position of authority, wealth or academic achievement may be sources of temptation to become proud. However, one of the secrets of staying in the will of God is humility. It takes meekness to learn and apply ourselves to our potential. God will always give more grace to the humble. He assists everyone and gives more grace but He resists the proud. If the devil resists us, we can be assisted by God, but if God resists us, who can rescue us? Our attitude determines elevation. The way we lead our lives affects the extent of our rise. Many are so full of pride that they do not know that it is their pride that has gotten them grounded. Romans 12:3 says “For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.” Some even think without them the Church of God will not do well. Because of their pride they make all manner of arrogantia statements. For as long as Jesus is the Head of the Church, the work of God will go on with or without.
Beloved, pride is the foundation for destruction, it ruins lives and destinies. It can bring down a person from a high position. Today, cultivate the right attitude for a quality destiny and avoid the life of pride and arrogance. Don’t put yourself in a position where God has to resist you. Don’t overestimate yourself! Humble yourself and keep a watch on yourself. When you catch yourself getting puffed up with your own greatness, repent and remember that every good thing you enjoy and every bit of success you’ve had has come by the Grace of God and by His Power. Don’t become a legend in your own mind. Instead, humble yourself beneath the mighty Hand of God, and let God do the exalting—that prevents some very painful falls. Always remember that you are nothing if not for God. You did not do anything differently or better than the people who are not yet at your level.
O LORD, deliver me from every form of pride. Help me to always remember that I am nothing without You in Jesus’ Name.