GOD BRINGS DOWN THE SELF-CONFIDENT FOOLS By Major Frank Materu
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Key Scripture: "For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." (Matthew 23:12)
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Introduction
In every generation, humanity faces the temptation of self-confidence that disregards the sovereignty of God. It is a deceptive pride that convinces men and women to worship their abilities, achievements, and possessions rather than acknowledging their dependence on the Almighty. The Word of God warns us repeatedly against self-reliance that leads to arrogance and idolatry. Instead, He calls us to walk humbly before Him, placing our trust entirely in His divine wisdom and providence.
In this message, we explore the dangers of self-confidence apart from God, the inevitable judgment upon the proud, and the blessings of humility. The Scripture serves as our guide, exposing the futility of pride and urging us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts.
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The Dangers of Self-Confidence
The current generation, like many before it, is marked by an overwhelming confidence in self. People live as though they are sufficient in their own strength, forsaking the fear of the Lord. The Apostle Paul warned, "Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil." (Proverbs 3:7). Those who exalt themselves above God fall into the trap of vanity, vexation, and spiritual blindness.
Self-confidence, when it becomes pride, blinds individuals to their need for God. Instead of worshiping the Creator, they turn to idols of their making—success, intellect, or personal achievements. The Pharisees, in their self-righteousness, exemplified this danger, relying on external appearances and human traditions while neglecting the weightier matters of the law, justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23-28).
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God’s Judgment on the Proud
The Lord declares His wrath against those who trust in themselves rather than in Him. "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall." (Proverbs 16:18). Throughout Scripture, we see God’s consistent action in humbling the proud, whether individuals, cities, or nations. Babylon’s fall (Isaiah 14:12-15) serves as a stark reminder that no earthly power or pride can stand against the judgment of the Almighty.
The self-confident fools are ultimately reduced to ruins, for they place their trust in a faulty foundation. God, in His justice, reveals the futility of their pride and the false security of their idols. In doing so, He calls all to repent and acknowledge Him as the one true God.
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The Blessings of Humility
God delights in those who walk humbly before Him. He extends grace to the meek and lifts up those who rely on Him. "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time." (1 Peter 5:6). When we abandon self-reliance and place our confidence in the Lord, He becomes our guide, protector, and sustainer.
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The humility that pleases God is not self-deprecation but an acknowledgment of our dependence on Him. This attitude invites His correction, instruction, and blessing. King David exemplifies this heart posture in Psalm 25:9, "He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way."
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Walking in Truth and Trust
God calls us to cling to His truth and rely on Him alone. The psalmist declared, "It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans." (Psalm 118:8). Trusting in God leads to spiritual stability and eternal reward, while reliance on self invites ruin. Let us choose to walk circumspectly, embracing God’s truth and rejecting the deception of pride.
When the proud are brought low, it is an opportunity to align ourselves with God’s righteousness rather than sympathize with rebellion against Him. His judgments are perfect and serve to bring about repentance and restoration for those who turn back to Him.
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Summary
The self-confident who disregard God’s sovereignty set themselves on a path of destruction. Yet, God’s mercy is available to all who humble themselves and trust in Him. His truth stands as the foundation of all righteousness, calling us to abandon pride and embrace the life-giving guidance of His Spirit.
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Conclusion
Let us take heed of God’s warning against self-confidence and pride. Instead of exalting ourselves, let us humble ourselves under His mighty hand, knowing that He is faithful to exalt the humble in due time. As we trust in Him, we will find the peace, guidance, and blessing that only He can provide.
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Call to Action
Reflect on your life and identify areas where pride may have taken root. Surrender these to God, asking for His grace to walk humbly before Him. Commit to daily reliance on His Word and Spirit, trusting Him to lead you in paths of righteousness.
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Final Word of Encouragement
God is faithful to those who place their confidence in Him. In His presence, there is fullness of joy and the assurance of His unfailing love. Let us remain steadfast in humility and trust, knowing that He who began a good work in us will carry it to completion until the day of Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:6).
