In what ways can we guard against pride as warned in Ezekiel 28:15? Introduction: A Hidden Danger Pride is subtle, yet its consequences are catastrophic. Ezekiel 28:15 exposes the moment pride overturned blamelessness: “From the day you were created you were blameless in your ways until wickedness was found in you.” Pride turned a shining guardian into an enemy of God. If it happened there, it can happen here. How do we guard our hearts? Recognize Pride’s Roots • Forgetfulness of the Creator (Ezekiel 28:13–14) • Self-exaltation above God’s boundaries (Isaiah 14:13-14) • Coveting praise that belongs only to the Lord (Acts 12:21-23) Biblical Strategies to Guard Against Pride 1. Remember Who Gives Every Gift • 1 Corinthians 4:7: “What do you have that you did not receive?” • Daily thank God for abilities, opportunities, and successes. 2. Stay Low at the Foot of the Cross • Philippians 2:3-8 shows Christ choosing the lowest place. • Contemplate the cost of your redemption; nothing kills pride faster than Calvary. 3. Invite God’s Searchlight • Psalm 139:23-24: “Search me, O God…see if there is any offensive way in me.” • Regular, unhurried confession keeps the heart tender. 4. Embrace Scripture’s Warnings • Proverbs 16:18: “Pride goes before destruction.” • James 4:6: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” • Read these verses aloud; let their weight settle in. 5. Practice Servant-Minded Actions • Look for unnoticed tasks and do them (John 13:14-15). • Choose the less visible seat (Luke 14:11). • Serve someone who cannot repay you. 6. Cultivate Accountability • Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 highlights mutual support. • Invite a trusted believer to speak up when attitudes shift toward self-importance. 7. Redirect Praise Immediately • When complimented, acknowledge the kindness but silently—or aloud—redirect glory to God (Psalm 115:1). • Make it a reflex: “The Lord enabled this” rather than “Thanks, I worked hard.” 8. Keep an Eternal Perspective • Colossians 3:1-4 lifts our gaze to things above. • Remember that earthly titles and achievements will be tested by fire (1 Corinthians 3:13). Daily Heart Checks • Was Christ central in my conversations today? • Did success lead me to worship or to self-congratulation? • Have I thanked God more than I have promoted myself? Walking Forward in Humble Confidence True greatness is found in humble dependence on God. He delights to exalt the lowly and to pour grace where pride once reigned. Guard the heart diligently, keep Christ in clear view, and live blamelessly—so no “wickedness” is found in you. |
    |