How can we guard against the "pride" mentioned in Ezekiel 7:11? Ezekiel 7:11 in Focus “Violence has grown into a rod of wickedness; nothing of them will remain—none of their multitude, none of their wealth, and none of their preeminence.” This verse sits in a chapter where God announces imminent judgment on Judah. Pride (“preeminence”) had “budded” and matured into open violence. Because pride breeds self-reliance and contempt for God, the Lord promises to strip away everything the people trust—numbers, riches, status—until only Him remains. Why God Takes Pride So Seriously • Pride competes with God for glory (Isaiah 42:8). • It blinds us to sin and hardens us against repentance (Obadiah 1:3). • It precedes destruction (Proverbs 16:18). • God actively opposes proud people but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5). Guardrails That Keep Pride From Budding 1. Daily worship that magnifies God, not self • Start and end the day acknowledging His sovereignty (Psalm 95:6-7). • Sing or read aloud passages that exalt His attributes (Revelation 4:11). 2. Frequent, honest self-examination • Invite the Spirit to “search me, O God” (Psalm 139:23-24). • Confess specific sins immediately (1 John 1:9). 3. Scripture-shaped thinking • Memorize verses that confront self-exaltation (Jeremiah 9:23-24; Galatians 6:14). • Replace “I deserve” with “He deserves” whenever accomplishment or recognition comes. 4. Christ-centered service • Choose tasks that receive little applause (Matthew 6:3-4). • Remember Jesus “did not come to be served, but to serve” (Mark 10:45). 5. Accountable community • Invite trusted believers to point out pride when they see it (Hebrews 3:13). • Accept correction without self-defense (Proverbs 12:1). 6. Regular meditation on the cross • The cross showcases our need and God’s grace (Philippians 2:5-8). • It leaves no room for boasting except in Christ (1 Corinthians 1:31). Habits That Foster Humility Long-Term • Celebrate others’ successes genuinely (Romans 12:15). • Practice gratitude—write down daily evidences of God’s kindness. • Fast periodically to remember dependence on Him (Matthew 6:16-18). • Keep an eternal perspective: earthly “preeminence” vaporizes, but treasures in heaven endure (Matthew 6:19-21). Living the Lesson Judah’s pride led to devastation; ours will too if left unchecked. By enthroning God in worship, examining our hearts, obeying His Word, serving others, walking in accountable fellowship, and keeping the cross before our eyes, we place sturdy guards around our souls. The result is a life that reflects the humility of Christ rather than the arrogance condemned in Ezekiel 7:11—and that is a life God delights to bless. |
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