Avoidable Heart Condition – Proverbs in Practice
“Pride goes before a fall.” We’ve heard that, former procrastinators, or said it as a joke. It’s pretty commonly used in a teasing manner. However, scripture takes this admonition seriously.
“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” Proverbs 16:18
Pride is 1) self-respect 2) pleasure that comes from some relationship association, achievement, or possession that is seen as a source of honor, respect, etc. 3) exaggerated self-esteem, conceit. (Merriam Webster Online)
Numbers one and two seem all right. Then we hit number three and realize a little excess carries us right into conceit. Philippians 2 reminds us not to think more highly of ourselves than we ought. Also, consider ascribing honor to myself based on something I own or did, or from a connection I have with another person. How do those make me valuable? When we boast in Christ, we exult in HIS character and HIS finished work. Christ chose us; we did nothing to influence that. We’re just grateful!
Haughty means “having or showing an attitude of superiority and contempt for people or things perceived to be inferior.” If we think that way inside, it will show outside.
Superiority and contempt. We don’t want to put off leaving those at the cross. Gracious people may exercise self-control when they’re around us and not react outwardly to our arrogance.
Then they may choose to avoid our company. Hopefully, they pray for us, and, they may even speak to us. As parents, we’re responsible for teaching our children respectful attitudes and communication.
What fall may come? We don’t know. But scripture says there will be some undesirable result.
“Blessed is the one who fears the Lord always, but whoever hardens his heart will fall into calamity.” Proverbs 28:14
A hard heart begins to form in unsuspecting ways. Wanting people to pay for their mistakes, refusing to accept responsibility for our own wrongs, thinking we’re good because we don’t have a bent to certain sins, choosing blame over compassion, thinking we’re always right, exalting the opinions of man over God’s Word, valuing things or behaviors God tells us to stay away from, pride and a haughty spirit, etc.
Each of these begins with a choice. Each choice has its result. Usually, we don’t consciously choose pride, haughtiness, or a hard heart; we choose an attitude that is rooted in those, and we don’t realize it. May we wake up and repent. The choice to fear God always – without compromise – to seek Him and His way (Proverbs 3:5-6), leads to humility and blessing.
The falls and calamities referred to here are avoidable. How good of God to warn us!
Has pride, arrogance, or a hard heart begun to form in you?
