All humans struggle with pride. Pride is built into the world system and is a part of the sinful nature in all people. We see pride every day in others and often in ourselves. The world encourages pride in many subtle ways and some ways are not so subtle. There has been an increase in the show of pride in professional sports. The way that players express themselves after scoring a goal or touchdown often goes beyond team spirit and is an expression of self pride. The dress and fashions of the day are often designed to express pride rather than modesty.
The Bible states that the pride of life is one of the three roots of all sin (I John 2:16). The Bible has a lot to say about pride. Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall (Prov. 16:18). Most importantly, the Bible tells us that pride is something that God hates. The Book of Proverbs lists some items that God hates and are considered an abomination. The first item on the list is a proud look. God hates pride.
The terrible thing about pride is that it can deceive us. Satan fell from hevaen because of the sin of pride (Isa. 14:12-15). God blessed Satan when he made him as the most beautiful and wise angel of all creation. Pride got a hold of Satan and deceived him to the point where he thought that he could overthrow God. Pride will destroy a person because it will cause that person to attempt to be something they were not created to be, just like Satan.
Let us contrast pride with humility. The world gives lip service to humility but doesn't really support it. The Bible tells us that God will exalt the humble in due time (I Pet 5:6). Isaiah said that God dwells with those of a humble spirit (Isa. 57:15). Jesus told his disciples one day that we must humble ourselves as little children (Matt. 18:3-4). Jesus also said that those that exalt themselves will be abased and those that humble themselves will be exalted. Look at the contrast. The proud will be brought down and are headed for destruction, but the humble will be lifted up and God will dwell with them. It is better to humble ourselves and have the presence of God in our lives than to entertain pride for a season. Let us pray the prayer that says, "Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me and know my thoughts" (Ps. 139:23). Let us give God permission to search us and change us and humbly seek after God.
