By Andrew Williams
Proverbs 16:18: “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” (New Living Translation).
Good morning fellow disciples.
Let us consider the sobering warning, and the path to freedom, found in Proverbs 16:18. This isn’t simply a proverb; it’s a profound spiritual truth, a warning against the insidious nature of pride and a call to embrace the liberating power of humility.
Before we explore this verse, let’s define deliverance in this context. Deliverance from pride is not merely the suppression of arrogance; it’s a profound spiritual and emotional transformation, a release from the self-centeredness and self-exaltation that characterize pride. It’s a transition from a life dominated by ego to one characterized by humility, selflessness, and a genuine love for others. It’s a healing of the heart, a restoration of a right relationship with God and others, and a renewed capacity for genuine connection and growth. It’s freedom from the destructive consequences of unchecked ambition and self-importance.
The proverb states plainly: “Pride goes before destruction…” Pride, in its various manifestations, is a dangerous spiritual malady. It blinds us to our own flaws, distorts our perception of others, and ultimately leads to spiritual and relational ruin. It’s a subtle yet powerful force that can subtly corrupt our hearts, leading us down a path of self-destruction. It fosters arrogance, judgmentalism, and a disregard for the needs of others.
The proverb continues, “…a haughty spirit before a fall.” A haughty spirit, characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance and a disdain for others, inevitably leads to a fall—a spiritual, emotional, or even physical downfall. This fall can manifest in various ways: broken relationships, loss of reputation, spiritual stagnation, or even complete ruin. It’s a consequence of rejecting God’s grace and choosing self-exaltation.
Empowerment from the Verse: This verse empowers us to actively resist pride, not through self-effort alone, but through the grace of God. It reminds us that humility is not weakness; it’s strength, a recognition of our dependence on God and a willingness to submit to His will. It’s a call to actively cultivate humility, to acknowledge our flaws, to treat others with respect and compassion, and to seek God’s guidance in all things.
Your Task: Today, I challenge you to examine your heart for any signs of pride. Pray for God’s help in identifying areas where you may be self-exalting or devaluing others. Practice humility by actively seeking to serve others, confessing your faults, and acknowledging your dependence on God. Remember, humility is not self-deprecation; it’s a recognition of God’s greatness and our place within His creation.
Prayer: Father God, we come before You acknowledging our struggles with pride. Help us to see ourselves as You see us, recognizing our dependence on You and our need for Your grace.
Deliver us from the destructive power of pride, and empower us to live lives of humility, service, and love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.