One of man’s greatest enemies is pride. Where there is pride there is no room for God. Psalm 10:4 says, “The wicked in his proud countenance does not seek God; God is in none of his thoughts.” Pride is the state in which man is full of himself—such a person thinks he can run his life with no regard to God or His principles or even the counsel of others.

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In the Bible there are many examples that demonstrate the downfall of man when they have exalted themselves. Satan’s downfall, the description of which is given in Isaiah 14:9-15 is a cautionary example.

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One of the notable examples in the Old Testament is that of Uzziah, the king of Judah who sought to seek the Lord under the mentorship of Zechariah. But as fame and strength increased he grew proud that eventually led to his destruction. 2Chron. 26:16-21: “But when he was strong his heart was lifted up, to his destruction, for he transgressed against the LORD his God by entering the temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar of incense…….”

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Another such example is of King Nebuchadnezzar. As Babylon continued to grow in prosperity, one day the King was walking on the roof of the royal palace of Babylon, and he said, “Is not this the great Babylon I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty?”  Even as the words were on his lips, a voice came from heaven, “This is what is decreed for you, King Nebuchadnezzar: Your royal authority has been taken from you.” (Daniel 4:29-31).

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1 John 2:16 says “For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.” In today’s world people have easier access to money, power and fame, which increases the opportunity of pride to enter in their life.  Proverbs 16:18-19 warns us that “…pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” This is contrary to what God expects of us. He is pleased when we have the spirit of humility. For Matthew 5:5 says: “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”

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One of the greatest examples of humility is seen in Jesus Christ. He came down from Heaven, took the form of man to live like one of us— this act demonstrates humility. Throughout His life on earth Jesus demonstrated a life of obedience to His heavenly Father in humility. He being God himself chose to remain obedient even unto the death on the cross. In Matthew 20:26-28 Jesus says “…whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave, just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” On His last night with the disciples He washed their feet and set an example of servanthood. (John 13:12-17)

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Humility characterizes true Christianity which needs a shift in our focus to Jesus. We need to make a constant effort to change our attitudes and principles into Christ-like. When we start to build our relationship with God, a transformation happens within, whereby humility takes over, leaving pride powerless! So, let our hearts be fixed onto Jesus rather than things of the world that we may lead a Christ-filled life in every walk! As it says in Colossians 3:2: “set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”

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Prayer: Change my heart O Lord; take away every form of pride and teach me Your ways and fill me with the spirit of humility. In Jesus name, Amen