What does "pride is their necklace" reveal about the nature of arrogance? Setting the Scene in Psalm 73 Psalm 73 records Asaph’s struggle when he sees the prosperity of the wicked. Verse 6 pinpoints the root of their attitude: “Therefore pride is their necklace; a garment of violence covers them.” Understanding “Pride Is Their Necklace” • A necklace is meant to be seen; it lies in plain view. • Pride, then, is not hidden in these people—it is displayed, cherished, and paraded. • Just as a necklace encircles the throat, pride encircles the very life-breath of the arrogant, influencing every word that passes their lips. Arrogance as a Visible Ornament • Pride announces itself. – Proverbs 13:10: “Where there is strife, there is pride.” – Luke 18:11–12: The Pharisee cannot keep quiet about his self-exaltation. • Pride seeks admiration, craving the spotlight instead of giving glory to God. • It signals allegiance—not to the Lord—but to self, like a badge declaring, “I am my own master.” Consequences of Wearing Pride • Pride invites judgment. – Proverbs 16:18: “Pride goes before destruction.” – Isaiah 2:12: “The LORD of Hosts has a day against all who are proud and lofty.” • Pride breeds further sin. – Psalm 73:6 pairs the “necklace” of pride with a “garment of violence,” showing how arrogance fuels cruelty. • Pride blinds the heart. – Obadiah 3: “The pride of your heart has deceived you.” Guarding Our Own Hearts • Embrace humility as the true adornment. – 1 Peter 5:5: “Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another.” • Recognize God as the source of every good gift; gratitude suffocates pride. • Seek the mind of Christ, who “emptied Himself” (Philippians 2:5–8), exchanging the counterfeit jewelry of pride for the glory of obedient service. |
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