How can we identify and avoid "the arrogant" mentioned in Psalm 119:85? The Text in Focus “The arrogant have dug pits for me, in violation of Your law.” – Psalm 119:85 Who Are “the Arrogant”? • People marked by pride, self-reliance, and disdain for God’s Word • Those who “violate” (v.85) the clear commands of Scripture, showing open contempt for divine authority • Individuals who scheme against the righteous, viewing humility and obedience as weakness Traits That Expose an Arrogant Heart • Disregard for God’s law (Psalm 119:53) • A haughty spirit that invites downfall (Proverbs 16:18) • Boasting and self-promotion (Psalm 12:3–4) • Mockery of truth and godliness (Proverbs 21:24) • Refusal to seek counsel or correction (Proverbs 15:12) Why Their Attitude Is Dangerous • God Himself “opposes the proud” (James 4:6) • They dig traps that ensnare others—and ultimately themselves (Proverbs 26:27) • Their influence corrupts good character (1 Corinthians 15:33) • Pride blinds them to their need for repentance, leading to destruction Recognizing the Traps They Set • Slander and false accusations aimed at discrediting believers • Temptations that entice us to bend or ignore God’s standards • Subtle pressure to adopt worldly values over biblical convictions • Cynical questions meant to undermine confidence in Scripture Guarding Our Own Hearts from Arrogance • Daily submission to God’s Word (Psalm 119:11) • Consistent self-examination in light of Scripture (2 Corinthians 13:5) • Quick repentance when pride surfaces (1 John 1:9) • Remembering our dependence on grace (Ephesians 2:8–9) Practical Ways to Avoid the Arrogant 1. Choose companions wisely—“the companion of fools will be destroyed” (Proverbs 13:20). 2. Limit exposure to voices that belittle biblical truth—whether media, literature, or friendships. 3. Seek fellowship with humble, Scripture-loving believers (Hebrews 10:24–25). 4. Respond to arrogance with gentle truth, not matching pride with pride (2 Timothy 2:24–25). 5. If unavoidable (work, school, family), set clear spiritual boundaries and keep a prayerful, watchful spirit (Matthew 26:41). Cultivating Humility Through God’s Word • Memorize passages that exalt God and humble man (e.g., Psalm 8; Romans 11:33–36). • Serve others intentionally—humility grows in the soil of service (Mark 10:45). • Practice gratitude; thanking God shifts focus from self to Him (1 Thessalonians 5:18). • Celebrate others’ successes, resisting envy and self-glory (Romans 12:15–16). Living Out Psalm 119:85 Today Staying clear of the arrogant begins with recognizing them through the lens of Scripture, guarding our hearts from similar pride, and choosing humble, God-honoring paths instead. The Lord sees every pit they dig, and He faithfully protects those who cling to His law. |
    |