Pride is a very destructive character defect. It is evident in our lives when we think negative, angry, or victimized thoughts.
Pride is the first step toward destruction. Proud thoughts will lead you to defeat.
Proverbs 16:18
When we have been harmed or offended by someone, pride tells us that we know best how to deal with it. We decide to use our own ideas, which are actually fatally flawed, and the result is that instead of solving problems, we become slaves to destructive life practices that fill our lives with increased suffering.
The Bible instructs us:
Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice. A fool’s mouth lashes out with pride, but the lips of the wise protect them. Proverbs 13:10, 14:3
So, if we’re involved in any relationship that’s irritating and where we are, as the old saying used to be, “butting heads” then we can be pretty sure that pride is involved. When we are thinking or speaking harsh words about another person, that’ just another sign that we have pride that needs to be dealt with.
Heavenly Father, We know that pride is destructive because it removes Your presence and Your will from any thoughts about how to deal with a situation.
Pride tells us that we are right and the other person is wrong regardless of the consequences. Forgive us for the many times we’ve failed to listen to wise advice and lashed out with whatever we felt in the moment. We’ve stumbled and fallen so many times because we’ve tried to do things our own way. What a painful mess that has created so many times.
Help us Lord to humble ourselves and learn to live in Your will because You are a God who wants to actually save us from troubles and help us to live with dignity and honour.
The Bible also says:
Though the Lord is great, he cares for the humble, but he keeps his distance from the proud. Though I am surrounded by troubles, you will protect me from the anger of my enemies. You reach out your hand, and the power of your right hand saves me. The Lord will work out his plans for my life—for your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever.
Psalm 138:6-8a
We’re so grateful God that You are willing to reach out your hand and save us from enemies and troubles that surround us when we humbly acknowledge that we can’t manage on our own and put our hand in Yours. We certainly need Your help to live in humility today and to trust in Your faithful love. Protect us and show us a secure way forward, we pray. Amen
So, what might even a “one minute” pride inventory show in your life today. Holy Spirit show us our hearts.
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