In what ways can we guard against pride in our own spiritual lives?

Hezekiah’s Misstep: A Cautionary Snapshot

“​But Hezekiah’s heart was proud, so he did not repay according to the favor shown him; therefore the wrath of the LORD came upon him and upon Judah and Jerusalem.” (2 Chronicles 32:25)

---

Why Pride Slips In

• Success arrives, gratitude departs

• Blessings feel earned rather than received

• Private praise turns into public self-exaltation

• Accountability is ignored

---

Warning Signs of an Inflated Heart

• Diminishing prayer life

• Irritation when corrected (Proverbs 27:17)

• Quiet neglect of Scripture

• Boasting in achievements (1 Corinthians 4:7)

• Reluctance to serve in hidden ways

---

Practical Safeguards Against Pride

• Remember every gift is from God

“Every good and perfect gift is from above…” (James 1:17)

• Practice daily gratitude

“Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.” (Psalm 103:2)

• Stay teachable through accountability

“Exhort one another daily, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.” (Hebrews 3:13)

• Immerse your heart in Scripture

“I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” (Psalm 119:11)

• Serve quietly and generously

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves.” (Philippians 2:3-4)

“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve…” (Mark 10:45)

• Keep prayerful dependence

“Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

“Search me, O God, and know my heart…” (Psalm 139:23-24)

• Recall pride’s certain consequences

“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Proverbs 16:18)

“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (1 Peter 5:5)

• Welcome God’s loving discipline

“The Lord disciplines the one He loves.” (Hebrews 12:6)

Hezekiah’s story reminds us that discipline is mercy calling us back before destruction sets in.

By weaving these safeguards into daily life, we follow a humble path that honors God, blesses others, and spares us the hard lessons pride inevitably brings.