PRIDE
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Proverbs 16:18
"Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall."
Supporting Texts: James 4:6, 1 Peter 5:5, Isaiah 14:12-15, Daniel 4:30-37, Philippians 2:5-8
INTRODUCTION:
Pride is one of the deadliest sins that often hides behind a mask of self-confidence or success. It is an exaltation of self above others and, more dangerously, above God. The Bible is filled with warnings about the dangers of pride, showing how it leads to downfall, disgrace, and separation from God. Pride is a spiritual cancer that eats away at the soul and distorts our perception of who we truly are in relation to God and others.
From Lucifer in heaven to kings on earth, the fall of many has been traced to the seed of pride. It blinds a man to correction, inflates his ego, and distances him from humility, which is the very posture God desires. Pride makes people feel self-sufficient and removes their dependence on God. That is why God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.
In today’s sermon, we will explore the causes, manifestations, and consequences of pride. We will also see how to overcome pride through a lifestyle of humility and brokenness before God. Let us consider five key truths on this destructive spirit and how to walk in its opposite—humility.
1. PRIDE LEADS TO DESTRUCTION
Pride is a dangerous pathway that ends in ruin, both spiritually and physically.
a) Pride blinds people to reality
When someone is consumed by pride, they lose the ability to see their faults and limitations (Proverbs 11:2).
b) God resists the proud
According to James 4:6, God actively opposes those who walk in pride. This puts the proud at odds with divine favour.
c) Pride invites judgment
Whenever pride is present, divine judgment is not far behind (Obadiah 1:3-4).
d) Pride gives the devil a foothold
Just as Lucifer fell because of pride, those who entertain it give room for satanic manipulation (Isaiah 14:12-15).
Biblical Example: King Nebuchadnezzar was humbled by God after boasting in his power and glory (Daniel 4:30-37).
2. PRIDE HINDERS SPIRITUAL GROWTH
A proud heart cannot receive from God or others, stalling spiritual maturity.
a) Pride makes us unteachable
Pride closes our ears to counsel and correction (Proverbs 13:10).
b) It kills intimacy with God
The proud do not seek God, and their hearts become cold toward Him (Psalm 10:4).
c) It quenches the Holy Spirit
Pride resists the gentle leading of the Spirit, causing stagnancy (1 Thessalonians 5:19).
d) It promotes spiritual pride
Even religious knowledge can inflate the heart if not balanced with humility (1 Corinthians 8:1).
Biblical Example: The Pharisees were too proud to accept Jesus as the Messiah, despite their knowledge of the law (John 9:39-41).
3. PRIDE DESTROYS RELATIONSHIPS
Where pride exists, unity suffers and love is hindered.
a) It fuels arrogance and superiority
Pride causes people to look down on others, straining relationships (Romans 12:3).
b) It creates conflict
Pride refuses to apologise or compromise, leading to divisions (Proverbs 13:10).
c) It hinders forgiveness
A proud heart would rather hold grudges than humble itself (Matthew 6:14-15).
d) It undermines teamwork and unity
Pride thrives on independence rather than collaboration (Philippians 2:3).
Biblical Example: King Uzziah became proud after success and crossed spiritual boundaries, leading to his isolation (2 Chronicles 26:16-21).
4. PRIDE IS ROOTED IN SELF-GLORY
The essence of pride is the desire to exalt oneself above others and even God.
a) It seeks personal praise
Pride feeds on the applause of men rather than the approval of God (Matthew 6:1-2).
b) It boasts in achievements
Pride gives self the credit instead of acknowledging God's grace (Deuteronomy 8:17-18).
c) It builds self-made thrones
Proud people often create a sense of self-rule where they answer to no one (Revelation 3:17).
d) It misplaces identity
Pride ties value to status, success, or possessions rather than to being in Christ (Luke 12:16-21).
Biblical Example: Herod was struck by an angel and died because he did not give glory to God when people praised him (Acts 12:21-23).
5. HUMILITY IS THE ANTIDOTE TO PRIDE
To overcome pride, we must deliberately embrace humility in our walk with God.
a) God exalts the humble
True promotion comes from a life of humility (James 4:10).
b) Jesus modelled humility
He humbled Himself even unto death, showing us the example to follow (Philippians 2:5-8).
c) Humility attracts grace
God gives more grace to the humble (1 Peter 5:5).
d) Humility builds unity and love
It lays down self to serve others and live peaceably (Colossians 3:12-14).
Biblical Example: The tax collector humbled himself in prayer and went home justified, unlike the proud Pharisee (Luke 18:9-14).
CONCLUSION:
Pride is subtle but deadly. It can creep into our lives unnoticed through success, knowledge, or even spiritual service. The proud heart distances itself from God and becomes a target of divine resistance. To deal with pride, we must consistently examine our hearts, confess our self-exaltation, and walk in brokenness before the Lord.
God delights in the humble. He lifts them up, covers them with grace, and entrusts them with honour. As we empty ourselves of pride and self-glory, we make room for God to be glorified in our lives. Choose today to dethrone pride and embrace the humility that pleases the Lord.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Father, deliver me from every hidden pride in my heart.
2. Lord, give me the grace to walk in humility daily.
3. Father, destroy every spirit of self-exaltation operating in my life.
4. Lord, help me to seek Your glory and not my own.
5. I receive the spirit of meekness and submission in all areas of my life.
