We tend to think of people who are proud as arrogant or above it all. So we seldom think of ourselves as having a problem with pride. Yet it is one of the sins that the Bible continually warns us about.
Here’s a sample:
In his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God. Psalm 10:4
Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice. Proverbs 13:10
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Romans 12:16
It’s hard to see our own flaws and sins. Pride can take many forms which often can appear quite subtle in our lives. How many of these can you identify in yourself?
- Refusing to accept advice – “No one is going to tell me what to do.”
- Refusing to admit mistakes – “No one is going to tell me I am wrong.”
- Refusing assistance – “I don’t need anyone else. I can handle it on my own.”
- Feeling better than others – “Some people just aren’t worth caring about.”
- Putting on a false front – “People need to think I have it all together.”
- Not sharing with others – “I need to keep this information for myself, or else others will win.”
- Easily wronged – “I can’t believe people treated me that way, I’m a good person.”
- Feeling ungrateful – “I don’t really get all that I deserve.”
When our sense of self is inflated (pride) the Bible warns that a fall isn’t too far away. (Proverbs 16:18) Often it is a gentle reminder to not take ourselves so seriously but to keep following Jesus who shows us the way of humility.
