Proverbs 29:23 (KJV)
A man’s pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.
The Scripture clearly emphasizes that pride ultimately leads to downfall, while those who are humble in spirit are honored. This serves as a powerful reminder of the perils of pride. In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to become self-reliant and prideful, but pride builds walls. Pride is a terrible sin! Pride can obscure our understanding of our own limitations and hinder our openness to the wisdom and guidance of others and God. It can blind us to our own faults, making us resistant to feedback and correction. Proverbs 16:18 says, “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” Pride is a subtle yet powerful force that can lead us astray. It can lead to our downfall, as we often overestimate our abilities and ignore the wisdom of others. Anyone prideful will ultimately find that true strength lies in embracing humility. Luke 14:11 says, “For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” Jesus teaches us that true greatness comes not from elevating ourselves above others but from recognizing our need for grace and serving others with a humble heart.
Humility, or being lowly in spirit, is highly valued. Humility involves recognizing our limitations, being open to learning, and valuing the contributions and well-being of others. Humility is also total and complete dependence on God. It is trusting in God and not in ourselves. To be humble is to recognize that the ways and thoughts of God are higher above our own. In other words, it takes humility to learn and apply ourselves to our potential. This attitude brings honor and respect, not just from others but in God’s eyes. James 4:6 says, “But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.” The man or woman who is humble of heart is blessed indeed, for God gives grace to the humble and exalts them to elevated positions. He looks with favor on the humble and provides comfort and tender mercies to the one who shows true humility of spirit. Humility is the pull of grace, and grace is the door to simplicity. That is, the humble are effortless beneficiaries of the grace of God. In other words, where humility starts, grace also begins. If the devil holds out against us, God will help or assist us. However, if God resists us, who can rescue us?
Beloved, be clothed with humility. Embrace humility in your life. No matter how loaded, you don’t have a future if you walk in pride. Don’t overestimate yourself or make yourself god on earth! It was pride that caused the fall of Lucifer, and he became satan, the devil. Pride led king Saul down to a shameful and untimely death. Don’t put yourself in a position where God has to resist you, for God resists the proud and favors the humble. Don’t become a legend in your mind. Instead, humble yourself beneath the mighty Hand of God, and let God do the exalting that prevents some very painful falls. Today, reflect on moments where pride might have led you astray and think about ways to cultivate a humble spirit. Show humility in your interactions with others, leading to greater honor and growth. Keep a watch on yourself, and when you catch yourself getting puffed up with your 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 His Power. Look for opportunities to lift others and trust that in doing so, you are walking in the footsteps of Jesus, who humbled Himself even unto death on a cross for our sake. Remember, fear the Lord, submit to Him in every area of life and avoid the pride that goes before a fall.
O LORD, deliver me from every form of pride and help me to live a life of humility in Jesus’ Name.