The Perils of Arrogance and the Call to Humility in an Age of Technology By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” – Luke 14:11 (NIV)
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Introduction
In the modern world, pride and arrogance have become pervasive forces that guide the actions of individuals, nations, and entire civilizations. The pursuit of self-reliance, technological advancements, and an overdependence on worldly systems have led many to despise the value of humility. Yet, the wisdom of God calls for a humbling of the heart and a return to true understanding of who we are and who God is. In this article, we will explore the consequences of pride and arrogance, the dangers of overreliance on worldly inventions, and the importance of humility as a guiding principle for navigating the complexities of life.
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The Arrogance of Pride and the Dangers It Brings
As nations, tribes, and individuals grow in power, wealth, and technological advancements, there is a tendency to become intoxicated by the allure of pride. When people or entire civilizations believe they are invincible, they disregard the wisdom of humility. The growing arrogance in societies often leads to a disdain for the simple, humble beginnings that are the foundation of true greatness. This self-assuredness, rooted in pride, leads individuals to scoff at humility, while elevating the false security of self-reliance.
The Apostle Paul warns in Romans 12:3 (“Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.”). Yet, many in the world today, intoxicated by their own pride, have rejected this wisdom. The folly of arrogance leads people down a path of destruction, as they fail to recognize their inherent need for divine wisdom and guidance.
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The Idolatry of Technology: Trusting in Machines Over God
One of the most significant challenges of the modern world is the love affair with technology. As technological advancements continue to shape and redefine our lives, many people have turned to these innovations for comfort, security, and even identity. However, this obsession with machines and gadgets often leads individuals to place their trust in creations of man rather than the Creator Himself.
Humanity was not made by machines or artificial intelligence but by the hand of the Living God. Yet, many have allowed their confidence to shift from God to the inventions of men. This shift in trust can lead to spiritual blindness, as people become more dependent on technology and less reliant on the wisdom and guidance that comes from God.
As it is written in Psalm 115:4-8, “Their idols are silver and gold, made by human hands. They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but cannot see...those who make them will be like them, and so will all who trust in them.” The more people place their faith in human-made systems, the further they move away from the true source of wisdom and life—God Himself.
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The False Security of the World’s Refuge
In times of uncertainty and crisis, many people seek refuge in worldly possessions, safety measures, and self-preservation tactics. Multitudes are buying guns, survival kits, and insurance policies, mistakenly believing that these actions will provide security and peace of mind. However, these worldly solutions are ultimately futile in the face of the spiritual challenges and eternal realities that humanity faces.
The world offers temporary solutions to life's struggles, but only God provides lasting peace and safety. In Psalm 18:2, it is written, “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge.” True safety and security are found not in the material world, but in the unshakable refuge of God's presence. It is through prayer, humility, and seeking divine counsel that we find the strength to overcome life's trials.
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Humility: The Key to Divine Wisdom and Protection
In the midst of a world that celebrates pride and self-reliance, the call to humility is often overlooked. Humility is not just about low self-esteem; it is the recognition of our dependence on God and the acknowledgment that we are not in control. It is through humility that we align ourselves with divine wisdom and protection.
When individuals walk in humility, they are able to discern between good and evil. Humility opens the door to wisdom, as it is the foundation upon which godly living is built. Proverbs 11:2 says, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” It is this wisdom that will guide individuals to make righteous choices and find peace in the midst of chaos.
Jesus Christ, the perfect example of humility, showed us how to walk in meekness. Born as a helpless babe, He lived among proud, arrogant people who scorned humility. Yet, He remained humble and obedient to God’s will. Philippians 2:8 reminds us that “being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” In this ultimate act of humility, Jesus demonstrated the power of humility to overcome the greatest of trials.
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The Consequences of Rejecting Humility
The rejection of humility leads to pride, and pride leads to destruction. In the scriptures, we see many civilizations and individuals who once believed in their invincibility, only to find their downfall when they turned away from God’s wisdom. Nations and empires, built on pride, have crumbled under the weight of their own arrogance. This is not just a historical lesson but a present warning to those who refuse to humble themselves before God.
Proverbs 16:18 states, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” This truth remains timeless—when we place our trust in our own strength, intelligence, or wealth, we set ourselves up for failure. The key to overcoming these trials is to return to humility, acknowledging our need for God and His guidance in all aspects of our lives.
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Summary and Conclusion
The dangers of pride, the idolatry of technology, and the false security of worldly refuge are all issues that many face in the modern world. These things, though promising temporary comfort, ultimately lead to destruction. The solution lies in humility—a humility that acknowledges our dependence on God, seeks His wisdom, and trusts in His provision for all things.
In the face of adversity and the overwhelming pressures of life, it is crucial to remember that only God can provide lasting security and peace. By walking in humility, we open the door to divine wisdom and protection, allowing us to live in accordance with His will. The call is clear: humble yourselves before the Living God, seek His counsel, and trust in His eternal wisdom.
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Call to Action
In this time of uncertainty and confusion, I urge you to examine your life. Have you placed your trust in worldly systems, or have you humbled yourself before the Living God? Now is the time to turn to Him, to seek His wisdom, and to humble your heart. Trust in God, not in the fleeting promises of the world, and He will guide you in the path of righteousness.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Remember, you are not alone in this journey. The Living God, your Creator, is always with you, offering guidance, wisdom, and protection. Trust in Him and walk humbly, for He will lead you in the way everlasting. No matter the trials or challenges you face, His Light will guide you, and His grace will sustain you.
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Prayer of Salvation
Heavenly Father, I come before You in humility, acknowledging my need for You. I repent of my pride and self-reliance and ask for Your forgiveness. I believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, who humbled Himself for my sake, and I accept Him as my Savior and Lord. Lead me in Your way, O God, and help me to walk in humility, trusting in Your wisdom and guidance. I surrender my life to You today, and I ask for Your Holy Spirit to fill me with peace, strength, and understanding. In Jesus' name, Amen.
