He Will Crush the Proud and Haughty! By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
"The arrogance of man will be brought low, and human pride humbled; the Lord alone will be exalted in that day, and the idols will totally disappear." (Isaiah 2:17-18, NIV)
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Introduction
God’s Word is clear: He opposes the proud and exalts the humble. In this message, we explore the judgment awaiting the proud and haughty who elevate themselves above others and even above God. The day of the Lord is not a day of celebration for the rebellious; it is a day of His wrath, fury, and indignation—a day when human pride will be utterly crushed, and God’s eternal Kingdom will be revealed in its glory.
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The Day of the Lord: A Time of Judgment
While many proclaim the imminent return of Christ with joy, they fail to realize that His coming will be marked by darkness for the rebellious. His wrath will reveal the futility of human arrogance.
• Supportive Scripture:
“That day will be a day of wrath—a day of distress and anguish, a day of trouble and ruin, a day of darkness and gloom.” (Zephaniah 1:15, NIV)
• Those who trust in their power and riches will find themselves powerless and destitute.
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The Downfall of Pride and Arrogance
Pride has led individuals and nations to defy God, imagining themselves to be indestructible. Yet, God’s Word assures us that He will bring the proud to ruin.
• Supportive Scripture:
“Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Proverbs 16:18, NIV)
• Earthly accomplishments and riches will crumble before God’s righteous judgment.
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God’s Justice for the Oppressed
God’s wrath is not random; it is His righteous response to wickedness, especially against those who oppress the poor and needy. The proud will be humbled, and the oppressed will see justice.
• Supportive Scripture:
“For the Lord takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with victory.” (Psalm 149:4, NIV)
• The poor will witness the downfall of those who exploited them, and God’s justice will prevail.
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A Call to Humility and Trust
God calls His people to walk in humility, subject to His Spirit. True believers are to trust and obey, even when God’s ways are beyond their understanding.
• Supportive Scripture:
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” (James 4:10, NIV)
• Those who walk humbly with God will find refuge, even amidst His wrath.
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The Folly of Rebellion and Unrepentance
Rebellion against God leads to destruction, both in this life and in eternity. The unrepentant will face eternal damnation, while the humble will enjoy eternal life.
• Supportive Scripture:
“But those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Matthew 23:12, NIV)
• God’s justice is inevitable, and no one can stand against His wrath.
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The Role of True Believers
As God’s people, we are called to examine our hearts through the Holy Spirit’s guidance and accept correction. Pride and haughtiness must be crucified if we are to walk in righteousness.
• Supportive Scripture:
“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24, NIV)
• Submission to God’s Spirit brings true light and life, while rebellion leads to darkness and destruction.
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Summary
God will crush the proud and haughty, bringing them to ruin and restoring righteousness on the earth. While the wicked face destruction, those who walk humbly with God will find refuge in His mercy. Pride and arrogance lead to ruin, but humility and trust in God bring life and light.
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Call to Action
Choose humility over pride and submit yourself to the correction of the Holy Spirit. Walk in obedience to God’s commands, trusting in His plan even when you do not fully understand it. Seek His Kingdom above all else and declare His justice and mercy to the world.
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Conclusion
The day of the Lord will reveal the futility of human pride and the glory of God’s eternal Kingdom. Let us live in humility and gratitude, trusting in God’s mercy and justice.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Remain steadfast in your faith, knowing that God is your refuge and strength.
"The Lord sustains the humble but casts the wicked to the ground." (Psalm 147:6, NIV)
Walk in humility and let your life bear witness to the righteousness and mercy of God.
