The Prideful Path
When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble there is wisdom. Proverbs 11:2
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14
INSIGHT
What is pride? It's hard to define, but we all recognize it when we see it. Okay, that statement is only partially true. Even though it's easy for us to acknowledge it in those around us, we often remain blind to the pride that resides in our hearts.
Pride is self-delusion and serves as a barrier that prevents growth, understanding, and transformation from taking place. It leads to an inflated opinion and ego of ourselves. We presume our thoughts, beliefs, and point of view are always right. Pride rejects and resents wise instruction and correction because, after all, wisdom isn't needed when one has all the "answers." We're quick to point fingers, but resist looking in the mirror at all costs.
We display arrogance when we demand the status and position only reserved for God. Pride happens the moment we refuse to acknowledge our utter dependence upon Him. We think that unlike other people, we are immune to the crash and can handle everything that comes our way.
Yet, consider today's words from Proverbs and 2 Chronicles. Pride is not just an annoying character trait. It brings disgrace and, eventually, destruction. If we choose pride and refuse to humble ourselves before God, chaos ensues, not only in our hearts but also in the world around us.
We don't set out to be prideful and self-centered; we intend to be good. However, it is our direction, not our intention, that determines our destination. Pride is one of the traits that cause us to continue to push and demand our way.
Why do the humble possess wisdom? It is because they test their motives, take correction, quickly confess their mistakes, and alter their lives accordingly. Above all else, they look to God to guide their steps.
What is your direction? Are you on a prideful path? Identify the seeds of pride in your life and root them out quickly and thoroughly. Seek after God in such a way that your life is changed because you are being formed more intimately in His image. Humility leads to healing.
REFLECTION
Would you say pride is clouding your judgment regarding your priorities, view of the world, and your current pace of life? Why or why not? What makes you answer in the way that you do?
PRAYER
Lord, give me eyes to see my prideful ways. Give me ears to hear wise advice and counsel. Help me root out the pride in my life and keep me from disgrace. I acknowledge my complete and total dependence upon You. I humble myself before You. Grant me the resolve to actively take a posture of humility so that I might gain wisdom and be formed more closely in Your image. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.
