What does Psalm 101:5 teach about pride and its consequences? Psalm 101:5 — The Text “Whoever slanders his neighbor in secret, him I will put to silence; I will not tolerate a man with haughty eyes and an arrogant heart.” (Psalm 101:5) Key Observations on Pride • “Haughty eyes” highlight an outward posture of superiority. • “An arrogant heart” exposes the inward root of self-exaltation. • Secret slander and pride spring from the same soil—contempt for others. • David’s intolerance mirrors God’s; pride cannot coexist with holiness. Consequences Stated in the Verse • Silencing: the proud lose voice, platform, and credibility. • Removal: they are excluded from close fellowship and influence. • Foreshadowed divine judgment: what the king enforces on earth anticipates God’s eternal verdict (cf. Proverbs 16:18). Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 16:5, 18 — “Everyone proud in heart is detestable to the LORD… Pride goes before destruction.” • Isaiah 2:11-12 — the proud brought low, the LORD exalted. • James 4:6 — “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” • 1 Peter 5:5 — “Clothe yourselves with humility… God opposes the proud.” • Luke 14:11 — self-exaltation leads to humbling; humility leads to exaltation. Living the Truth • Examine both looks and thoughts; pride germinates quietly before it speaks. • Cut off secret slander immediately to protect the community. • Seek humility, the ground of grace and lasting honor (Micah 6:8; Philippians 2:3-5). • Remember: unchecked pride inevitably meets God’s resistance and ultimate downfall. |
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