The Destructive Power of Pride “A haughty look, a proud heart, And the plowing of the wicked are sin.” (Proverbs 21:4) Adapted from an article by Joe Price (The Spirit’s Sword, June 2011) Preached at West Side on June 26, 2011 AM Print Slides: 1,12,15

Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall. Pride is destructive. Not only because of the fact that it is sin. It is ruinous to the character, and deleterious to our relationships with others.

The Destructive Power of Pride Pride Destroys Humility Romans 12:16

Romans 12:16 Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion. The haughty person is so centered in self, he does not look to humbly serve and treat others with respect and deference.

The Destructive Power of Pride Pride Destroys Humility Romans 12:16 Pride Destroys Remorse for Sin Isaiah 57:15; James 4:6

Isaiah 57:15 For thus says the High and Lofty One Who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: “I dwell in the high and holy place, With him who has a contrite and humble spirit, To revive the spirit of the humble, And to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” Humility and a contrite heart go hand in hand.

James 4:6 But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.” The proud heart refuses to yield to the will of God. This is something for which God will not stand.

The Destructive Power of Pride Pride Destroys Humility Romans 12:16 Pride Destroys Remorse for Sin Isaiah 57:15; James 4:6 Pride Destroys Generosity 1 Timothy 6:17-19

1 Timothy 6:17-19 Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18 Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, 19 storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

The Destructive Power of Pride Pride Destroys Humility Romans 12:16 Pride Destroys Remorse for Sin Isaiah 57:15; James 4:6 Pride Destroys Generosity 1 Timothy 6:17-19 Pride Hardens the Heart Against God Exodus 9:16-17

Exodus 9:16-17 But indeed for this purpose I have raised you up, that I may show My power in you, and that My name may be declared in all the earth. 17 As yet you exalt yourself against My people in that you will not let them go. Pharoah failed to recognize that he ruled at God’s pleasure, and because of pride refused to obey Him.

The Destructive Power of Pride Pride Destroys Humility Romans 12:16 Pride Destroys Remorse for Sin Isaiah 57:15; James 4:6 Pride Destroys Generosity 1 Timothy 6:17-19 Pride Hardens the Heart Against God Exodus 9:16-17 Pride Destroys the Soul Proverbs 6:16-19; Luke 18:14

Proverbs 6:16-19 These six things the LORD hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: 17 A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, 18 A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, 19 A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren.

Luke 18:14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted. The humble Publican received God’s forgiveness, not the haughty Pharisee.

Conclusion Let us be wise by being humble: “When pride comes, then comes shame; But with the humble is wisdom.” (Proverbs 11:2)