What lessons can we learn about pride from Pharaoh's example in Ezekiel 29:1? Setting the Scene: God’s Timely Word “In the tenth year, in the tenth month on the twelfth day, the word of the LORD came to me, saying,” (Ezekiel 29:1) - The date stamp reminds us God keeps precise records. - Pride may seem hidden, but heaven has it on the calendar. Pharaoh’s Pride Unveiled “ ‘My Nile is mine, and I made it myself.’ ” (Ezekiel 29:3) - Pharaoh credits himself for the Nile, the lifeline of Egypt. - By claiming creative power, he challenges God’s supremacy (Isaiah 42:8). Snapshots of Pride in Pharaoh • Self-deification – “I made it.” • Ownership obsession – “My Nile.” • Public boasting – spreads the lie that he is source and sustainer. Lessons for Us 1. Pride forgets the true Source – Deuteronomy 8:17-18; 1 Corinthians 4:7. 2. Pride invites God’s direct opposition – James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5. 3. Pride blinds leaders and harms followers – Exodus 14:28 shows Egypt’s losses linked to Pharaoh’s arrogance. 4. God sets a day to confront pride – Ezekiel 29:1 proves judgment is scheduled, not random. 5. Pride always precedes a fall The Cost of Arrogance - Egypt becomes desolate forty years (Ezekiel 29:11-12). - Pharaoh’s power is broken like a reed (Ezekiel 29:6-7). Living the Lesson • Acknowledge God in every success—“Not to us, O LORD” (Psalm 115:1). • Replace “my” with “His” when speaking of resources, gifts, or influence. • Submit plans to God’s timing; He alone controls the calendar (Proverbs 19:21). • Seek humility daily; better to humble ourselves than be humbled (Luke 14:11). |
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