How can believers guard against the arrogance described in Isaiah 10:13? The boasting spirit in Isaiah 10:13 “For he says: ‘By the strength of my hand I have done this, and by my wisdom, because I am clever. I have removed the boundaries of nations; I have plundered their treasures; like a mighty one I have subdued their rulers.’” (Isaiah 10:13) Spot the early warning signs • Taking credit for success and minimizing God’s role • Brushing aside counsel or correction • Measuring worth by achievements or possessions • Speaking often of “my plan” or “my talent” instead of God’s grace Re-center on God’s sovereignty every day • Read Deuteronomy 8:17-18; John 15:5—everything originates with Him • Begin mornings confessing dependence: “Apart from You I can do nothing” • End evenings tracing every win back to His provision Practical habits that crush pride • Keep a gratitude journal—note three gifts from God daily • Memorize verses: Proverbs 16:18; James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5-6 • Serve anonymously—do tasks no one applauds (Matthew 6:1-4) • Celebrate others—highlight teammates’ contributions • Fast occasionally—physical weakness fuels spiritual humility • Meditate on Christ’s example (Philippians 2:5-8) until your heart bows Lean on the Body of Christ for accountability • Invite a trusted believer to confront pride kindly but firmly • Join a group that regularly testifies to God’s work, not personal prowess • Redirect praise: “Thank you—God has been kind to let me be part of this” Remember where pride ends “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Proverbs 16:18) Assyria fell; every self-exalting empire and individual will meet the same end (Isaiah 10:12). Keeping eternity in view sobers the soul. Commitments for the week ahead • Start and finish each day acknowledging God as the source of every ability • Perform one hidden act of service • Recite James 4:6 whenever self-congratulation surfaces • Thank God aloud for any compliment received |
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