In what ways can we guard our hearts against arrogance mentioned in Psalm 73:8? Setting the Scene “They mock and speak with malice; with arrogance they threaten oppression.” (Psalm 73:8) Arrogance in this verse is more than a private attitude; it spills out as mocking words and oppressive actions. To guard our hearts, we must cut off arrogance at the source before it reaches our lips or hands. Recognize the Danger • Arrogance blinds us to God’s sovereignty (Proverbs 16:18). • It makes us trust ourselves instead of the Lord (Jeremiah 17:5). • It poisons relationships, leading to oppression rather than service (James 4:6). Guardrails for the Heart • Keep a vigilant watch: “Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life.” (Proverbs 4:23) • Compare every thought to Christ’s example of humility (Philippians 2:5-8). • Remember that all we have is received, not earned (1 Corinthians 4:7). Practices that Cultivate Humility Daily gratitude – List specific gifts from God; gratitude reminds us we are receivers, not self-made. Scripture saturation – Read passages that highlight God’s greatness (Isaiah 40; Psalm 145) and man’s dependence. Serving in hidden ways – Do acts of kindness no one else sees (Matthew 6:3-4). Hidden service starves the desire for praise. Confession and repentance – Ask the Spirit to expose prideful moments; confess quickly (1 John 1:9). Listening more than speaking – “Let every man be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” (James 1:19) Attentive listening disarms arrogant speech. Staying Accountable • Invite a trusted believer to point out pride they notice. • Memorize verses that confront arrogance (e.g., Proverbs 27:2; Romans 12:3). • Regularly participate in a local church where mutual exhortation is normal (Hebrews 10:24-25). Living Psalm 73:8 in Reverse Instead of mocking, speak words that build up (Ephesians 4:29). Instead of malice, choose kindness and compassion (Ephesians 4:32). Instead of oppressive threats, use your influence to defend the weak (Proverbs 31:8-9). Guarding our hearts against arrogance means replacing self-exaltation with God-exaltation. The more clearly we see His majesty, the smaller our egos become and the safer our hearts remain. |
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