THE DANGER OF PRIDE AND THE CALL TO HUMILITY By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Proverbs 16:18 - "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall."
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Introduction
Pride is one of the most subtle yet destructive forces that can infiltrate the heart of a believer. It was the original sin that led to the downfall of Lucifer and continues to lead countless souls into darkness. Pride blinds individuals from recognizing their dependence on God and tricks them into believing they are self-sufficient. This lesson seeks to expose the deceitfulness of pride, its devastating consequences, and the call to humility as the only way to true wisdom, peace, and eternal security in Christ.
The Bible consistently warns against the dangers of pride, showing how it leads people away from the truth and into deception, destruction, and ultimately, eternal damnation. Conversely, humility is the key to receiving God's grace, wisdom, and divine favor. The call is for every believer to forsake pride, embrace humility, and walk in the fear of the Lord.
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The Deception of Pride
James 4:6 - "But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: 'God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'"
Pride is deceptive because it blinds individuals to their own faults while making them feel superior to others. It leads to arrogance, self-righteousness, and a refusal to acknowledge one's need for divine guidance. Many who walk in pride fail to realize that they are distancing themselves from God's presence and exposing themselves to destruction.
Pride gives a false sense of security, making individuals rely on their abilities rather than God's wisdom. This self-exaltation often results in rebellion against divine authority and a disregard for godly counsel.
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The Consequences of Pride
Proverbs 29:23 - "A man's pride will bring him low, but a humble spirit will obtain honor."
Pride carries severe consequences, both in this life and in eternity. It leads to downfall, humiliation, and destruction. Those who walk in pride often find themselves entangled in sin, broken relationships, and ultimately, separation from God.
The enemy uses pride as a tool to lure individuals into spiritual bondage. Many have fallen into deception, corruption, and eternal ruin simply because they refused to humble themselves before God. The world promotes self-exaltation, but Scripture warns that the end of pride is disgrace and devastation.
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The Path to Humility
Micah 6:8 - "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
The only antidote to pride is humility. To be truly humble is to recognize one's dependence on God and surrender to His will. Humility allows individuals to be teachable, to seek God's wisdom, and to acknowledge their need for grace.
Walking in humility requires a daily commitment to prayer, obedience, and a willingness to serve others selflessly. The greatest example of humility is Jesus Christ, who, though being God, took the form of a servant and laid down His life for humanity.
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Guarding Against Pride
Philippians 2:3 - "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves."
To guard against pride, one must remain steadfast in seeking God's wisdom and guidance. This involves daily self-examination, repentance, and a commitment to living according to God's Word.
Pride thrives in a heart that is not surrendered to God. By keeping a posture of worship, gratitude, and service, believers can resist the temptation of self-exaltation and remain in the pathway of righteousness.
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Summary
Pride is a deadly sin that deceives, corrupts, and leads to destruction. It separates individuals from God's presence and brings eternal consequences. The call to humility is the only way to receive God's grace, wisdom, and blessings.
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Conclusion
The Bible repeatedly warns against the dangers of pride and calls believers to a life of humility. The choice is clear: either embrace humility and walk in divine favor or choose pride and face destruction.
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The Call to Action
Repent of any prideful tendencies and surrender your heart fully to God. Seek humility in all things, acknowledge your dependence on Him, and live a life that glorifies Him. Do not let pride rob you of your destiny.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Let us continually strive to walk in humility, knowing that God exalts the humble and brings low the proud. Remain steadfast in faith, seeking His guidance, and let His wisdom lead you in all things.
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Prayer of Salvation
Heavenly Father, I come before You in humility, acknowledging that I am a sinner in need of Your mercy. I repent of my pride and self-righteousness and ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son, who died for my sins and rose again to give me eternal life. I surrender my heart to You and ask You to be the Lord of my life. Fill me with Your Spirit and help me to walk in humility and obedience to Your will. Thank You for Your grace and salvation. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
