THE DECEPTION OF PRIDE By Major Frank Materu
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Key Scripture: Proverbs 16:18 “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”
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Introduction
In this generation, we witness an overwhelming rise in human pride and arrogance. Many see themselves as wise in their own eyes, believing they are independent of God and masters of their destiny. However, this self-reliance and elevation of human wisdom are dangerous deceptions that lead to spiritual blindness and eventual destruction. The Lord calls His people to reject the folly of pride and instead walk in humility, truth, and submission to Him. This teaching seeks to expose the perils of pride, remind us of God's call to humility, and guide us in aligning our lives with His truth.
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The Blindness of Pride
Proverbs 21:4 declares, “Haughty eyes and a proud heart—the unplowed field of the wicked—produce sin.” Pride blinds the heart and mind, preventing individuals from recognizing their need for God. This blindness leads to self-exaltation and a rejection of divine guidance. Prideful individuals often live in a fabricated reality, imagining themselves as invincible and self-sufficient, yet they are nothing more than fools stumbling in darkness.
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The generation we live in is marked by a culture that glorifies human wisdom, innovation, and achievement while dismissing the authority of God. Many who indulge in pride fail to see that their perceived greatness is but folly in the eyes of the Almighty. God's wrath is revealed against such individuals, for their pride and self-deception estrange them from Him.
God’s Wrath Against the Proud
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James 4:6 reminds us, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” Those who persist in their arrogance and disobedience will face the righteous judgment of God. The Scriptures are clear that pride leads to ruin and devastation. The folly of believing in one’s self-sufficiency results in separation from God, as prideful hearts refuse to acknowledge their Creator.
God’s justice is unrelenting towards those who defy Him. Yet, in His mercy, He repeatedly warns the proud, calling them to repentance. Even in judgment, His desire is not to destroy but to restore. However, those who harden their hearts and cling to their pride will ultimately reap the consequences of their rebellion.
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The Call to Humility
2 Chronicles 7:14 declares, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” God’s call to humility is an invitation to align with His will and receive His blessings. Humility requires a complete surrender of self-will and an acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty.
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True humility is demonstrated through obedience to God’s Word, a willingness to accept correction, and a life committed to His service. When we walk in humility, we position ourselves to receive His guidance, provision, and protection.
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The Folly of Returning to Sin
Proverbs 26:11 says, “As a dog returns to its vomit, so fools repeat their folly.” It is tragic when individuals, having experienced God’s deliverance, return to the very sins that once enslaved them. This cycle of rebellion not only grieves the heart of God but also leads to spiritual decay and ultimate judgment.
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The refusal to separate from the world and its corruptions reflects a lack of true repentance. God’s people are called to holiness, to be set apart for His purposes. Returning to sin is a rejection of His sanctifying work and an embrace of spiritual bondage.
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The Consequences of Pride and Disobedience
Isaiah 2:12 warns, “The Lord Almighty has a day in store for all the proud and lofty, for all that is exalted (and they will be humbled).” The consequences of pride and disobedience are severe and unavoidable. God’s righteous judgment will humble the proud and bring them to their knees.
The Scriptures make it clear that those who persist in their folly will face devastation. Yet, God’s ultimate desire is that they would turn to Him, repent, and be saved. His judgments are not only acts of retribution but also calls to repentance and restoration.
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Summary
The deception of pride and the folly of human wisdom lead to spiritual blindness and eventual destruction. God’s wrath is revealed against those who elevate themselves above Him, but His mercy extends to those who humble themselves and turn from their wicked ways. The call to humility and obedience is a call to life and freedom in God.
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Conclusion
In these perilous times, the choice is clear: follow the path of pride and face destruction, or embrace humility and walk in God’s truth. Let us not be blinded by the deceit of self-exaltation but instead seek the wisdom and guidance of the Lord.
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Call to Action
Examine your heart today. Are there areas of pride or disobedience that need to be surrendered to God? Humble yourself before Him, seek His forgiveness, and commit to walking in His ways. Avoid the folly of returning to sin, and strive to live a life that honors Him.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Micah 6:8 assures us, “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.” Embrace the beauty of humility and the joy of walking in alignment with God’s will. As you do, you will experience His grace, favor, and unending love.
