In what ways can we avoid the pride that led to Moab's downfall? Setting the Scene: Jeremiah 48 : 38 “On all the roofs of Moab and in her public squares there is lamentation everywhere, for I have broken Moab like a jar that no one wants,” declares the LORD. Moab’s Pride—Root and Ruin • False security in wealth, walls, and wisdom (Jeremiah 48 : 7, 29) • Boasting against the Lord’s people (Jeremiah 48 : 26) • Stubborn refusal to repent (Jeremiah 48 : 11–12) • End result: public disgrace, shattered like a worthless jar (Jeremiah 48 : 38–39) Recognizing the Same Drift in Us • Self‐reliance that edges out prayer (Proverbs 3 : 5) • Comparison that feeds superiority (Luke 18 : 11–12) • Credit‐taking instead of God‐glorifying (Acts 12 : 21–23) • Selective obedience—doing what feels right rather than all God commands (1 Samuel 15 : 22–23) God’s Clear Warning “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Proverbs 16 : 18) Cultivating Humility—God’s Antidote • Fix our gaze on His holiness (Isaiah 6 : 1–5) • Remember our utter dependence—“Apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15 : 5) • Serve others first (Philippians 2 : 3–4) • Keep short accounts with sin through confession (1 John 1 : 9) • Submit cheerfully to God-given authority (Romans 13 : 1) • Thank God aloud for every success (Psalm 115 : 1) Daily Habits That Starve Pride 1. Begin each morning in Scripture, letting God’s Word set the agenda. 2. List three specific ways God provided yesterday; thank Him. 3. Seek hidden acts of service—no spotlight, no announcement. 4. Invite honest accountability from a trusted believer (Proverbs 27 : 6). 5. End the day reviewing where pride slipped in; repent immediately. God’s Promises to the Humble • “But He gives us more grace. That is why it says: ‘God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.’” (James 4 : 6) • “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may exalt you in due time.” (1 Peter 5 : 6) • “For this is what the High and Exalted One says… ‘I dwell… with the contrite and humble in spirit.’” (Isaiah 57 : 15) Walking Forward Moab’s rooftops echoed with lament because pride pressed God’s patience to the limit. Choosing humility—moment by moment—is the sure path to enjoy His favor instead of facing His resistance. |
    |