What can we learn about pride from Ben-Hadad's actions in 1 Kings 20:2? Tracing the Scene Ben-Hadad, king of Aram, gathers thirty-two allied kings and besieges Samaria. From the outset he speaks and acts as though victory is guaranteed. “Then he sent messengers into the city to Ahab king of Israel, saying, ‘Thus says Ben-Hadad: “Your silver and gold are mine; your finest wives and children are mine.”’” (1 Kings 20:2–3) Spotlight on Ben-Hadad’s Prideful Posture • Entitlement language—“are mine”—reveals a heart convinced he deserves what belongs to others. • He does not negotiate; he dictates. Pride prefers demands over dialogue. • Surrounded by thirty-two kings, he is emboldened by human support, not by dependence on God (cf. Psalm 20:7). • He measures power by wealth, people, and military might rather than by righteousness (Proverbs 11:4). Key Lessons About Pride 1. Pride claims ownership of what God has not given. – “The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof” (Psalm 24:1). – Ben-Hadad ignores divine ownership, assuming his siege grants unlimited rights. 2. Pride exaggerates strength and minimizes vulnerability. – Later, a single prophetic word brings Ben-Hadad to defeat (1 Kings 20:13–21). – “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring” (Proverbs 27:1). 3. Pride blinds us to God’s sovereignty over nations. – God uses even a wavering King Ahab to humble a boastful Aramean (1 Kings 20:28). – “He rules over the nations” (Psalm 22:28). 4. Pride breeds contempt for others. – Treating Ahab’s family as spoils objectifies people made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27). – “In humility value others above yourselves” (Philippians 2:3). 5. Pride invites divine opposition. – “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). – Ben-Hadad’s downfall illustrates the opposition side of that promise. Warning Signs for Us Today • Using possessive language—“my” ministry, “my” resources—as though God were not the giver. • Boasting in alliances, networks, or credentials instead of Christ. • Making demands in relationships rather than pursuing mutual submission (Ephesians 5:21). • Dismissing the worth of people when pursuing personal goals. Cultivating Humility Instead • Acknowledge God’s ownership daily (1 Chronicles 29:14). • Remember how quickly God can reverse fortunes (Daniel 4:30–37). • Celebrate others’ value and contributions (Romans 12:10). • Seek counsel and accountability to spot pride early (Proverbs 27:6). |
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