The word “pride” seems to be closely connected to those who are arrogant or who have an unreasonably elevated opinion or value of themselves. It presents a picture, in our minds, of one who looks down on others with an attitude of superiority or condescension. Often, we look at those whom we consider “full of pride” as also being “full of themselves and their abilities.” They cannot see God as the giver of every gift they have. In Hebrew, “pride” comes from a word meaning “to boil” and when water boils, it must be channeled or there will be an explosion.
A person of “humility” is one who is seen as being submissive to authority, compliant and willing to listen, observe, and learn. A humble person does not attempt to keep others from being recognized or rewarded for what they have accomplished. Their modesty gives God credit for what He has done through them. And, they also understand that all things come from God and, in all reality, belong to Him.
Is it any wonder, then, that Solomon says, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace; but with humility comes wisdom.” If we see ourselves as being above and beyond others, as possessing more ability and knowledge than others, more of anything and everything that others have, we find no room for growth and our need for wisdom, especially God’s wisdom. We “have it all together.” No wonder the proud end up in disgrace – they cannot see who or what they are.
But the humble? They are open, honest, able, and willing to recognize their need for God’s guidance and His wisdom. They desire to know Him and be like His Son!
Prayer: Help us, Father, to realize our limitations, temptations, and failures, and to depend on You to meet our needs for wisdom and guidance. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Proverbs 11:2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace; but with humility comes wisdom.
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