A Reflection On Pride

When I need to reject the world’s mind-set

Our world honors pride. We often give the most media attention to those who demand it. Athletes make arrogant claims and then are lauded for their competitiveness. Political and military leaders proudly wield their power over vulnerable people and are rewarded for their assertiveness. Making a name for oneself is an honorable business in the world’s culture. We might easily be drawn into that philosophy if we don’t continually remind ourselves of God’s hatred for pride. It is a consistent biblical theme: pride is repulsive. It directs glory inward instead of upward. It seeks the honor of the gifted rather than the honor of the Giver. In its very essence, it ignores God. If we want to avoid it, we must always honor Him.

Let every hint of pride be repulsive to you. Let God deal with those who seek their own glory; it is not our job to humble anyone. But the Bible repeatedly tells us to humble ourselves. Agree with God that pride is a detestable thing. Send it away and seek His glory. His honor comes to those who do.

The LORD detests the proud; they will surely be punished.

Proverbs 16:5