Enmity toward God and toward fellow men is what makes man prideful and is the power by which Satan wishes to reign over us. According to Breanne, pride is competitive in nature; when we put our will against God’s will. As Apostle Paul said of the Philippians “They seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ”(Philippians 2:21).
The proud cannot accept the authority of God giving direction to their lives. They put their perceptions of truth against God’s great knowledge, their accomplishments against His mighty works. The proud wish God will agree with them. They are not interested in changing their opinions to agree with God’s. Listen, the scripture says “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble”(James 4:6).
“…If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world—the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.” – 1 John 2:15-17
What values are most important to you? Do your actions reflect the world’s values or God’s values?
The antidote for pride is humility (meekness) and submissiveness. Remember, pride caused Satan to lose his exalted position in heaven (Isaiah 14:12-17). The second thief on the cross lost eternity with Christ as a result of pride. What about the rich fool (Luke 12:16-21), he lost all. Hello, pride will prevent you from giving glory to God for your achievements and success. Pride will deny you of God’s uncommon blessings. It will cause you in giving to God (Tithe, Dance, Clap & Praise Offerings), and giving to man. Pride will deny you eternal rest and peace; deny you of God’s son ship (free gift of Salvation). Pride separates you from God and that is the reason why you are not saved. Pride will rob you of divine favor and divine connection.
Are you taking credit for your exceptional abilities? Whatever you have, you have nothing to make you proud. The more you have, in wealth, either in beauty or handsomeness, enviable position, great skills or talents, the more you are indebted to God. Read more of pride in the lives of King Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:28-32) and King Uzziah (2 Chronicles 26:16). They both fell from greatness to nothingness. Take this moment to examine yourself if the elements of pride are in you. Give your life to Jesus Christ today, He will transform you and you will become a new person (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Prayer: Father forgives me of the sin of pride. Let me be forever yours, in Jesus Christ’s mighty name.
Writer: Pastor Jude Akinleyimu
