Topical Encyclopedia Pride, a sin that exalts the self above others and even above God, is consistently condemned throughout Scripture. It is a condition of the heart that leads individuals to rely on their own strength and wisdom rather than seeking the guidance and grace of the Lord. The Bible warns that those who are guilty of pride will face resistance from God Himself.Divine Resistance to the Proud The Scriptures clearly articulate that God opposes the proud. In the book of James, it is written, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble'" (James 4:6). This passage underscores the principle that pride sets one against God, while humility aligns one with His favor and grace. Similarly, the Apostle Peter echoes this sentiment: "Likewise, you younger ones, submit yourselves to your elders. And all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble'" (1 Peter 5:5). Here, the call to humility is not only a personal virtue but a communal one, emphasizing the importance of humility in relationships within the body of Christ. Examples of Divine Resistance The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals and nations who faced God's resistance due to their pride. One of the most notable examples is King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. In the book of Daniel, Nebuchadnezzar's heart was lifted up with pride, and he attributed the glory of his kingdom to his own power. As a result, God humbled him by driving him away from human society until he acknowledged God's sovereignty (Daniel 4:28-37). Another example is found in the account of Pharaoh during the Exodus. Pharaoh's prideful refusal to acknowledge the God of Israel led to a series of plagues that devastated Egypt. His hardened heart and arrogance ultimately resulted in the destruction of his army in the Red Sea (Exodus 14:26-28). Warnings Against Pride The wisdom literature of the Bible frequently warns against the dangers of pride. Proverbs 16:18 states, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall" . This proverb highlights the inevitable downfall that accompanies pride, serving as a cautionary reminder of the consequences of elevating oneself above others and God. In Isaiah, the prophet declares, "The arrogance of man will be brought low, and the pride of men humbled; the LORD alone will be exalted in that day" (Isaiah 2:17). This passage points to the ultimate humbling of human pride in the face of God's majesty and power. The Call to Humility In contrast to pride, the Bible calls believers to a life of humility. Jesus Christ, the ultimate example of humility, "humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross" (Philippians 2:8). Believers are encouraged to follow His example, recognizing that true greatness in the kingdom of God is found in servanthood and humility. The resistance of God against the proud serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of humility in the life of a believer. By acknowledging our dependence on God and submitting to His will, we align ourselves with His grace and favor, avoiding the pitfalls of pride that lead to resistance and downfall. Torrey's Topical Textbook James 4:6But he gives more grace. Why he said, God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Easter Wednesday Also Suited to Easter Tuesday. It Shall not be Forgiven. Inexcusable Irreverence and Ingratitude Refutation of the Calumnies by which this Doctrine is Always ... Of the Most Bitter Kind of Scrupulosity Touching Confession. ... Hebrews x. 26, 27 The Sinner Arraigned and Convicted. 1 John ii. 17-Dec Bethesda and the Sanhedrin Psalm XLVIII. Resources What does the Bible say about pride? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Pride of Jacob (Amos 8:7)? | GotQuestions.org What is the pride of life? | GotQuestions.org Pride: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Pride is Followed by Debasement Pride is Followed by Destruction Pride: A Characteristic: False Teachers Pride: A Characteristic: The Devil Pride: A Characteristic: The Wicked Pride: A Characteristic: The World Pride: A Hindrance to Improvement Pride: A Hindrance to Seeking God Pride: General Scriptures Concerning Pride: Hezekiah, in Displaying his Resources Pride: Leads Men to a Persecuting Spirit Pride: Leads Men to Contempt and Rejection of God's Word and Ministers Pride: Leads Men to Contention Pride: Leads Men to Self-Deception Pride: Naaman, Refusing to Wash in the Jordan River Pride: Often Originates in Inexperience Pride: Often Originates in Possession of Power Pride: Often Originates in Possession of Wealth Pride: Often Originates in Religious Privileges Pride: Often Originates in Self-Righteousness Pride: Often Originates in Unsanctified Knowledge Pride: Saints: Hate, in Others Pride: Saints: Mourn Over, in Others Pride: Saints: Respect Not, in Others Pride: Shall Abound in the Last Days Pride: The Wicked Encompassed With Pride: They Who are Guilty of, Shall Be: Abased Pride: They Who are Guilty of, Shall Be: Brought Into Contempt Pride: They Who are Guilty of, Shall Be: Brought Low Pride: They Who are Guilty of, Shall Be: Marred Pride: They Who are Guilty of, Shall Be: Punished Pride: They Who are Guilty of, Shall Be: Recompensed Pride: They Who are Guilty of, Shall Be: Resisted Pride: They Who are Guilty of, Shall Be: Scattered Pride: They Who are Guilty of, Shall Be: Subdued Related Terms |
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