What practical steps can we take to avoid arrogance in our daily lives? Ezekiel 35:13—When God Hears Our Boasting “You boasted against Me with your mouth and multiplied your words against Me; I heard it Myself.” The LORD listens to every careless word. In Edom’s case, bragging became rebellion and invited judgment. That same danger hovers over any heart that allows arrogance to live unchecked. Why Arrogance Is So Dangerous • It blinds us to our dependence on God (1 Corinthians 4:7). • It invites divine opposition (James 4:6). • It precedes personal ruin (Proverbs 16:18). • It fractures relationships by exalting self over others (Philippians 2:3). Spotting the Early Signs • Boasting about achievements instead of thanking God. • Taking offense when not recognized. • Talking more than listening. • Resisting correction or accountability. • Assuming plans will succeed without prayer (James 4:13-16). Daily Practices That Starve Arrogance and Feed Humility 1. Remember who truly owns every gift • Begin the day by thanking God for specific abilities, resources, and opportunities. • 1 Corinthians 4:7 keeps perspective: “What do you have that you did not receive?” 2. Filter words before they leave the tongue • Ask: “Will this comment build up or build me up?” • Memorize Luke 14:11 and repeat it internally when tempted to self-promote. 3. Choose the low place on purpose • Volunteer for unseen, unglamorous tasks (Mark 10:45). • Offer the best seat, the last word, or the bigger slice to someone else. 4. Practice active listening • Give undivided attention; summarize what was said before responding (Proverbs 18:13). • Listening communicates value and counters the pride of self-preoccupation. 5. Keep short accounts with God • End each day confessing any proud thoughts or words exposed by the Spirit (Psalm 139:23-24). • Receive cleansing (1 John 1:9) and renew dependence on grace. 6. Cultivate an attitude of service • Ask daily, “Whose burden can I lighten?” (Galatians 6:2). • Serving shifts focus from status to sacrifice. 7. Maintain gospel accountability • Invite a trusted believer to point out pride immediately. • “Better an open rebuke than hidden love” (Proverbs 27:5). 8. Meditate on Christ’s humility • Read Philippians 2:5-8 often; picture the Son of God washing feet (John 13). • Let His example recalibrate ambitions and tone. Living the Contrast Micah 6:8 summarizes the humble life: “to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” When hearts stay low before the Lord, words stay low as well, and arrogance loses its footing. |