God Hates Pride

I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” [Luke 18.14]

Our society does not embrace this at all. Frankly, the Church has largely left off embracing it. To "humble oneself" is not demonstrated much among us today.

Was the Pharisee doing the right things? Yes, of course. However, arrogance associated with any obedience to God negates the benefit of the obedience. Why? Because pride is at the top of the list of things God hates.

One noteworthy point is that the Pharisee was thankful. We all know that a thankful heart is very important in our relationship with God. However, even thankfulness could not overcome God's distaste for pride.

So, even though one is obedient, doesn't break the Ten Commandments, fasts twice a week, and tithes without exception, there is no reward when pride is present.

There is simply no room for arrogance before God. God hates pride and no amount of good deeds will change His mind or cause Him to overlook it.

So, how does one genuinely humble himself? First, it would seem wise not to point out our good works to God - and certainly not to anyone else! But, even still it is entirely possible to say nothing about what we "do" and still have great pride in it. There is a heart issue that must be dealt with - not a mouth issue. 

Pride causes a person to erroneously think they meet God's expectations. However, this is impossible in a human being. Until a person understands that God is God and there is nothing (outside of trusting Him) that a human can do to please Him, then pride will remain.

Yes, in Christ, all are made joint heirs of God's Kingdom, but the is still no place for pride and arrogance in that standing.

Next, comparing ourselves to others is dangerous. There is no circumstance where comparing ourselves to others is acceptable. Likewise, not even comparing ourselves to others who are "better" than we are is acceptable because no other human sets the standard for our actions - only God does that. 

The safest and most sure way to please God is to practice humility. The best way to practice humility to to constantly see ourselves in God's presence - compared to God. Like the sinner in the scripture reference here today, when we truly value God for Who He Is, the only conclusion is fully-submitted humiliation before Him. He is God and there is no other.

Let me state it this way, even those who have recognized they are the "righteousness of God in Christ Jesus" have nothing to brag about to God. To do so reveals a great under-estimation of Who God Is.

There is simply no room for pride in the life of a follower of God.

Father, help me to see pride in my life and thoughts and expel them with Your Word and genuine humility. Forgive me for pride and arrogance.