Devotion for October 20, 2008

Pride

 "How you are fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! [How] you are cut down to the ground, You who weakened the nations! For you have said in your heart: ‘I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; I will also sit on the mount of the congregation On the farthest sides of the north; I will ascend above the heights of the clouds, I will be like the Most High.' Yet you shall be brought down to Sheol, To the lowest depths of the Pit." (Isaiah 14:12-15 NKJV)

 The great sin that plagues all unconverted men is pride. What is self-legislation but rebellion against the Creator? When Adam disobeyed God he became his own god and judge. Surely he gained the knowledge of good and evil. However, his knowledge was flawed, and it now pollutes everyone who has ever come into this world.

 Believers do not have to yield to their pride. However, believers will always need to control pride, to guard against pride. The sin of pride will not be eradicated until the believer is in heaven because it is such a natural part of the fall.

 The issue of pride was the root issue with Satan. He was lifted up in pride to think he could overthrow God. However, he will be brought down to the lowest depths of the pit.

 Believers must guard against the pride of life. When you concentrate on your concerns, your abilities, your opinions, your thoughts, and your appearance you make provisions for pride. It won't be long until boasting becomes a problem for you; If not boasting, then complaining and a general lack of contentment.

 Humble yourself now and make no provision for the flesh lest you fall under the judgment of God and He takes you down like Satan. God hates a proud look (Pr 6:16-17). Take courage though for He gives grace to the humble (James 4:5-10).

 May God lift you up today as you walk humbly before Him! Remember He can do great things with a soul yielded to Him. ". . . Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." (Matthew 23:12 NKJV)