Instinctively, we gravitate toward people who possess a humble confidence, while avoiding those who display even subtle hints of pride. The remnants of our ancient ancestors’ tragic fall from God’s perfect plan weaves through all our lives, exposing shades of insecurity.
A thundercloud rumbles overhead with its lofty white top ascending high and dark underbelly hanging low. Gusts of wind swirl through the streets tumbling garbage ahead of each puff of power. Lightning flashes and thunder rolls in bold declaration, announcing and warning of its presence. Quickly, it passes leaving little more than a trace of moisture in its wake.
God whispers to me, “Such is pride — puffed in power but amounting to little.” I remember and take heed, prayerfully asking Him again to reveal where pride has made its boast in me.
“The LORD detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.”
Proverbs 16:5
Subtle Hints
We think of ourselves as refined and humble, but subtle hints of pride expose themselves in various ways, such as
- Gossiping and pointing out the faults of others
- Refusal to apologize
- Difficulty in accepting counsel or advice
- Reluctance to serve in menial ways
- Ingratitude and self-centeredness
- Independence and trouble asking for help
- Defensiveness and blaming of others
- Talking more than listening in conversations
“To fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech.”
Proverbs 8:13
Since the Lord hates pride, we would be wise to adopt the same attitude. Pride, however, is like broccoli in our teeth; everyone else sees it before we do. Through a sensitivity to the Holy Spirit and genuine accountability before others, we can demolish pride that clouds our lives before they become thunderheads.
Healthy Heart
Expert gardeners say that the best defense against weeds in the lawn is healthy grass. The same could be said about our hearts. The best defense against pride is a healthy portion of humility.
Pride attempts to cover insecurity. Those who are genuinely humble display similar characteristics as well. They
- Refuse to repeat offenses and the faults of others
- Acknowledge their mistakes, repent, and develop strategies for personal change
- Receive counsel, correction, and discipline with grace
- Live generously and are constantly ready to serve in any capacity
- Are sensitive to the needs of others and grateful
- Recognize personal limitations and develop strong interpersonal relationships
- Readily take responsibility for their actions and conduct
- Are supportive listeners, responding to verbal and non-verbal cues of others
Pride and humility oppose each other. We will either reap the consequences of pride or experience the reward of humility.
“When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”
Proverbs 11:2
The Quest for Humility
The dictionary defines quest as “a long or arduous search for something.” To demolish pride, we quest for, focus on, and pursue humility. No matter how far we may feel from our goal, we press on, desiring the best for ourselves and those around us. We set ourselves to this quest, welcoming the Holy Spirit to reveal those areas where pride blows its empty blasts and rumbles its dark boasts,
Let’s encourage and support each other as we draw into the heart of humility where blessing flows.
Lord, thank You for Your gentle reminder and patient correction in our lives. Turn our lips from evil and our hearts from the subtle hints of pride. As Your chosen, holy, and dearly loved children, we intentionally put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience (Colossians 3:12). We accept our limitations and receive the grace of Your Spirit. Remind us, again and again, that humility and the fear of the Lord result in wealth, honor, and life (Proverbs 22:4). We choose to humble ourselves before You and others, knowing that You will lift us up in Your perfect time. We resist and renounce human efforts to inflate ourselves as we rest in Your goodness. Thank You, Lord Jesus, for giving us the greatest example of humility, as You came to serve and give Yourself as a ransom for many (Matthew 20:28). We desire to follow in the pattern You set for us. Oh, Lord, grant us the beautiful grace of humility.
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