In what ways can we guard against arrogance as warned in Daniel 11:36? The Warning in Daniel 11:36 “Then the king will do as he pleases, exalting and magnifying himself above every god; he will say astonishing things against the God of gods. He will be successful until the time of wrath is completed, for what has been decreed must be accomplished.” Why Arrogance Must Be Taken Seriously • It places self where only God belongs (Isaiah 42:8). • It blinds us to sin and coming judgment (Proverbs 16:18). • It provokes God’s active opposition: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6). • It mirrors the spirit of the final rebel in Daniel 11:36, inviting similar downfall. Heart-Level Indicators of Rising Pride • Diminishing awe for God’s Word and providence. • Irritation when not recognized or praised (Luke 14:11). • An argumentative spirit that must always be right (Proverbs 13:10). • Prayer life reduced to requests without surrender (Luke 18:11-14). Guardrails That Keep Pride in Check Saturate Your Mind with Scripture • Daily reading reminds us who truly reigns (Psalm 119:11). • Memorize passages like Romans 12:3; Philippians 2:3-4; 1 Peter 5:5-6. Practice Intentional Gratitude • Thank God aloud for specific mercies (1 Thessalonians 5:18). • Share testimonies of His provision, not your performance (1 Corinthians 1:31). Serve Others Quietly • Look for unnoticed tasks (Mark 9:35). • Keep some acts of generosity secret to train the heart (Matthew 6:3-4). Stay Accountable • Invite mature believers to speak truth into your life (Proverbs 27:6). • Confess sins promptly; pride festers in silence (1 John 1:9). Choose Humble Postures • Kneel in private prayer, physically expressing dependence. • Address God as “Lord” and yourself as His servant, echoing Mary’s example (Luke 1:38). Remember Everything Is Received, Not Earned • “What do you have that you did not receive?” (1 Corinthians 4:7). • View talents, opportunities, and victories as stewardship, not entitlement (Matthew 25:14-30). Nurturing a Continual Awareness of God’s Sovereignty • Meditate on passages that declare His absolute rule (Daniel 4:34-35). • When plans succeed, immediately credit His decree (Proverbs 19:21). • When plans fail, submit without resentment, trusting His wisdom (Job 1:21). Living Out Humility in Daily Routines Morning: begin with worship before requests. Workday: aim to elevate coworkers rather than self. Family time: listen fully before responding. Evening: review the day, repent of any prideful moments, and rest in God’s grace. The Outcome of Guarded Hearts • God’s favor and empowering grace (James 4:6). • Stability when exalted positions or successes arrive (Psalm 75:6-7). • A credible witness that contrasts sharply with the self-exalting spirit of the age (Philippians 2:15). By anchoring our hearts in these practices, we resist the arrogance portrayed in Daniel 11:36 and walk securely under the mighty hand of God. |
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