Just yesterday, a young man was rushed into the hospital with lacerations on his hands and legs.
Criminals had attacked him in the middle of the night.
He was brought in by a middle-aged man accompanied by the police.
As usual, there is a guideline in the hospital on the management of emergency cases.
But it seems they weren’t interested in obeying simple instructions.
Just as I arrived, I heard the middle-aged man shouting and boasting at the top of his voice.
He said,
“Do you know who I am?”
“Do you know I can sack you from your job?”
He continued ranting with so much pride that the nurse was a little bit afraid.
He continued, “I am the personal adviser to the Governor on security matters.”
As he said, immediately after the incident happened, he had called the police department to send him some armed men to control the situation.
He became angry, arrogant, and pompous.
When I asked what the problem was, I noticed it wasn’t anything serious.
But as expected, he was trying to frighten the nurse with his position.
The truth is, pride comes before a fall.
As Christians, we must learn to be humble and live like Christ.
There are many bible verses about being proud that we can learn from.
These scriptures teach us always to be humble and treat every other person with love.
Who we are, what qualities we have, or what influential people we know shouldn’t determine how we behave.
I have compiled bible verses about pride to encourage you to live rightly.
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Bible verses about pride
Proverbs 11:2
When pride comes, then comes disgrace,
but with humility comes wisdom.
Proverbs 11:2 offers clear insight: pride leads to disgrace, but humility brings wisdom. This ancient wisdom holds true today.
Take King Saul’s tale. He let pride override obedience to divine command. His decision to spare the Amalekite king and livestock stemmed from arrogance, leading to his tragic fall. Communities, not just individuals, suffered due to his pride.
Napoleon Bonaparte’s narrative serves as another cautionary tale. Esteemed as a formidable leader, his overconfidence drove him to invade Russia. The ensuing catastrophe and his eventual exile highlight pride’s ability to topple even the greats.
James 4:6 further clarifies the dangers of pride. God resists the proud. This isn’t about divine spite. Rather, pride erects barriers, distancing individuals from divine wisdom and grace.
Contrastingly, humility is revered, especially in Micah 6:8. This verse doesn’t just endorse humility; it pairs it with justice, underscoring its importance. True righteousness isn’t about self-promotion but understanding our role in a larger context.
In sum, while pride’s appeal might seem tempting, its aftermath is often perilous. True strength and insight are rooted in humility. It’s a message that’s crucial for all, especially today’s youth, to internalize.
Proverbs 16:18-19
Pride goes before destruction,a haughty spirit before a fall.Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.
Pride can be deceiving, often leading one astray. Proverbs 16:18-19 reinforces this idea, warning that pride precedes a downfall. The contrast? Humility. It’s the counterbalance, offering clarity and growth.
Now, think of the Tower of Babel. In their audaciousness, humanity decided to build a tower reaching the heavens. But why? It wasn’t for shelter or any practical purpose. No, it was to make a name for themselves, to rival even God.
Their pride clouded their judgment. And what was the outcome? Their language got confused, their unity shattered, and their ambitious project crumbled. In a single moment, their hubris led to their downfall.
Let’s consider another example, but from the modern world. The Titanic. Branded as “unsinkable,” this marvel of engineering was the pride of an era. But that very pride led to negligence.
The belief that it couldn’t sink resulted in fewer lifeboats, faster speeds in treacherous waters, and ultimately, a tragic end for many. Had there been humility, caution would’ve prevailed, potentially saving numerous lives.
Jesus offers a guiding principle: “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted” (Matthew 23:12). In essence, self-elevation is risky. Humility, on the other hand, paves a path for genuine growth. I believe embracing humility enriches our lives.
Further, the prophet Obadiah warns of pride’s deceptive nature (Obadiah 1:3). It creates an illusion of invincibility. And such delusions often lead to unexpected falls.
In conclusion, history, both ancient and recent, teaches the risks of unchecked pride. Whether it’s monumental towers or iconic ships, the pattern remains. Yet, the solution is timeless: humility.
By understanding our limits and valuing wisdom, we can achieve a more balanced, fulfilling life. I encourage embracing this mindset for a richer life journey.
Proverbs 15:33
Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the Lord,
and humility comes before honor.
Proverbs 15:33 isn’t about terror but reverence. In fearing God, we respect His grandeur and acknowledge our smallness. This fear imparts wisdom, guiding life decisions.
Now, what springs from this wisdom? Humility. By accepting our limitations and recognizing God’s boundless strength, we create a path to honor. When humble, we’re open and teachable.
The story of King Uzziah exemplifies this lesson. Once a righteous king, Uzziah’s reign turned from blessing to tragedy because of pride. Thinking himself above God’s laws, he burnt incense in the temple – a task meant only for priests.
His audacity led to an immediate punishment: leprosy. The tale serves as a stark reminder that pride, even in the mighty, can lead to one’s downfall.
Reflecting on modern times, Enron Corporation stands as a warning. Their inflated pride in their financial prowess blinded them. They overlooked ethical lines, leading to an epic corporate collapse. This teaches us that unchecked arrogance can spell disaster, irrespective of our standing.
In contrast, David, a revered biblical figure, constantly sought God’s direction. His plea in Psalm 25:9 showcases his humility, desiring a robust connection with God. David’s story reminds us of the rewards that come with a humble heart.
James, in his epistle, champions humility. “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will elevate you,” he writes in James 4:10. Lowering oneself spiritually permits God’s elevation. A divine conundrum, indeed.
Imagine a society rooted in such humility. Genuine relationships form, pretense vanishes, and deep connections arise. The surrounding transforms, love anchoring all interactions.
In an era marred by vanity, the value of humility remains crucial. It’s our guide to a life synced with the Creator.
Luke 18:14
“I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
Luke 18:14 sheds light on pride and humility. It narrates a contrast: a prideful Pharisee and a humble tax collector.
The Pharisee boasts of his piety. The tax collector, aware of his flaws, humbly seeks God’s mercy. Jesus concludes: the humble one is justified.
Matthew 5:3 further clarifies humility. “Blessed are the poor in spirit,” Jesus declares. This isn’t about lacking wealth. It’s about recognizing our spiritual needs. It’s understanding that without God’s grace, we’re incomplete. Humility, not pride, grants access to heavenly blessings.
Old Testament teachings echo this. 2 Chronicles 7:14 states a promise: “If my people humble themselves and seek my face, I will heal their land.” Here, humility is more than personal virtue; it shapes national destiny. With genuine humility, nations find healing.
However, modern values often clash with these teachings. Society might equate pride with power. Yet, the Bible promotes the opposite.
Consider Muhammad Ali, famed for his confidence. But he also displayed humility, admitting errors and evolving. Such moments showcased his true strength.
In our spiritual walk, understanding pride and humility is vital. Pride can deceive. Humility, on the other hand, draws us closer to God. It nurtures spiritual growth, letting us experience divine love.
In essence, while society may celebrate the proud, scripture champions the humble. Embracing humility paves our path for deeper spiritual connections. It’s essential to discern these contrasts, especially in our formative years.
Proverbs 29:23
Pride brings a person low,
but the lowly in spirit gain honor.
Pride is like a fleeting shadow, while humility is the sun that casts it. Proverbs 29:23 draws a stark comparison: pride brings a person low, while humility offers honor. Let’s unpack this.
King Nebuchadnezzar’s story from Daniel 4 serves as a striking illustration. He once boasted about his vast Babylonian empire. But his prideful exclamation was met with a divine response.
God reduced him to a state of beastliness. It’s only after he recognized divine power and embraced humility that his sanity and status were restored.
This pattern isn’t unique to ancient kings. Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple, faced a similar trajectory. At one point, his pride led to his expulsion from Apple.
However, his eventual return saw a changed man, more collaborative and forward-thinking. Under this renewed leadership, Apple not only survived but thrived.
1 Peter 5:5 further underscores the value of humility. It advises us to be humble in our interactions, reminding us that while God may be distant to the proud, He’s close to the humble.
In the same vein, Psalm 138:6 mentions God’s preference for humility. Even in His greatness, He recognizes and values the humble.
We all face challenges. Sometimes, pride can cloud our judgment. But life has an uncanny way of grounding us. The real growth happens in moments of humility. Proverbs reminds us that honor isn’t in boastful proclamations but in genuine humility.
In conclusion, pride offers temporary heights, but humility promises lasting honor. It’s a timeless lesson, one we should all remember as we navigate life.
The contrast of pride and humility is as evident today as it was in ancient times. Whether you’re a king or a tech mogul, the same principle applies.
More Bible verses about being proud
Proverbs 18:12
Before a downfall the heart is haughty,
but humility comes before honor.
The Bible’s Proverbs 18:12 offers a profound insight: pride heralds downfall, while humility precedes honor. This wisdom, rooted deeply in biblical and human history, serves as a guidepost for life’s journey.
Take Samson, for instance. His phenomenal strength was a gift from God, tied intrinsically to his Nazarite vow. But Samson’s pride in his own might overshadowed his commitment to this vow.
He believed he was invincible, indulging in liaisons that ultimately betrayed his source of strength. It was pride that blinded him, both figuratively and then literally, as his eyes were gouged out by the Philistines.
Had he remained humble, recognizing the divine origin of his power, his story might have had a different ending.
Contrast this with Lance Armstrong’s modern tale. His achievements in cycling made headlines. But beneath this success hid a darker truth: reliance on performance-enhancing drugs. Pride pushed him to this deceit. When unveiled, the fallout was severe.
Job’s wisdom in the Bible offers another dimension. He posits that God favors and uplifts the humble (Job 22:29). This isn’t about self-deprecation but recognizing our position in life’s vast tapestry.
Isaiah adds depth to this understanding. He shares that God dwells with the humble (Isaiah 57:15). Humility, then, becomes more than morality—it’s a conduit for divine connection.
While society might applaud audacity, the Bible provides an alternative lens. It values humility, seeing it not as weakness but as a shield against life’s adversities. Moreover, it views a humble disposition as a beacon for divine wisdom and favor.
In sum, both history and scripture converge on a singular truth: while pride often deceives and leads astray, humility stands as the cornerstone of true strength and honor.
1 Corinthians 8:1-2
Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that “We all possess knowledge.” But knowledge puffs up while love builds up. 2 Those who think they know something do not yet know as they ought to know.
Paul’s letters in the New Testament are loaded with insights, and 1 Corinthians 8:1-2 is no exception. Here, Paul reveals that knowledge can lead to pride.
Yet, true understanding goes beyond mere facts. He says, “Knowledge puffs up while love builds up.” In simple terms, just because you know, doesn’t mean you truly understand.
Knowledge is powerful. However, it’s not without pitfalls. Possessing information can lead to arrogance. Paul’s observation in Romans 12:3 reinforces this. He advises us not to overvalue our importance. Overconfidence, he suggests, can lead to self-deception, as echoed in Galatians 6:3.
Let’s dive into the Bible for clarity. The Church in Laodicea serves as a striking example. They believed they were spiritually affluent.
However, Jesus’s view differed. He saw them as lukewarm, as noted in Revelation 3:14-22. Their misplaced pride in spiritual stature rendered them spiritually impoverished in His eyes.
Now, think about Blockbuster Video. Remember them? For a time, they were giants, reigning supreme in the video rental industry. Their stores were everywhere. But then came a shift – the rise of digital platforms and streaming.
Blockbuster, however, clung to its traditional model. I guess you could say they were ‘proud’. And while they were reveling in their past achievements, the world moved on. Today? They’re a cautionary tale of what happens when pride impedes innovation.
In a world overflowing with data and information, possessing knowledge is one thing. Using it wisely is another. As we gather more knowledge, it’s vital to balance it with love, humility, and a deeper understanding.
As Paul indicated, knowing something isn’t the same as truly understanding it.
Luke 14:8
“When someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of honor, for a person more distinguished than you may have been invited.
Imagine attending a grand banquet. Every detail is exquisite. Where would you sit? Luke 14:8-11 offers guidance. Jesus teaches about pride and humility through this scenario.
Opting for the best seat can lead to embarrassment. A higher-ranking guest might arrive, forcing you to shift. The safer choice? Start at the end. When the host notices, they might elevate you. The key here is unexpected honor versus self-inflicted humiliation.
This isn’t just about social etiquette. It’s a life lesson on pride. King Herod Agrippa I, swathed in royal robes, basked in the cheers of his subjects, who called him a god. Flattered, he didn’t correct them.
But divine punishment swiftly followed; he was eaten by worms and died. The message? No mortal should attempt to steal God’s glory.
In a different arena, Kodak, the titan of the photography world, rested on its laurels. They believed their film legacy was invincible. As the digital revolution dawned, instead of adapting, they clung to the past.
The result? Bankruptcy. Like the individual grabbing the seat of honor, Kodak assumed a position they couldn’t maintain.
Philippians 2:3 deepens this lesson. Paul urges us: avoid selfish motives. Prioritize others above oneself. Not about belittling oneself, but championing selflessness.
Proverbs 25:6-7 echoes this wisdom. Avoid self-exaltation, especially before leaders. Waiting for an invitation is smarter than facing humiliation.
Here’s the crux: real exaltation stems from humility, not self-promotion. It’s a divine process. Lower yourself, and God elevates you.
I believe life isn’t about snatching honor. It’s about serving and growing. When we embrace humility, we find peace and align with God’s vision.
For me, Jesus offers a timeless lesson: prioritize humility. Life is richer and conflicts reduce. Let’s adopt this wisdom.
Proverbs 3:34-35
He mocks proud mockers
but shows favor to the humble and oppressed.
35 The wise inherit honor,
but fools get only shame.
Pride and humility: these two traits often dictate our paths, both in spiritual and worldly realms. Proverbs 3:34-35 is clear; the Lord favors the humble but resists the proud.
James 4:6 reinforces this. He states, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” His repetition isn’t casual. It emphasizes God’s clear stance on humility, echoing Proverbs throughout the New Testament.
Now, Isaiah 66:2 offers a unique perspective. It suggests that God, despite creating the universe, favors the humble. Not the mighty or rich, but those recognizing a power beyond themselves.
Our history is laden with stories reinforcing this. Consider Pharaoh of Egypt. He was a leader with unparalleled power, yet his heart was steeped in pride.
His arrogance led him to defy God’s commands, and what followed? The Ten Plagues – a dramatic display of the consequences of hubris. God’s power was undeniable, and Pharaoh’s obstinate pride faced divine retribution.
In the tech world, we have Blackberry’s story. Once a smartphone giant, their pride in their non-touchscreen model was their undoing. They overlooked touch technology and witnessed a steep decline. A lesson in how pride can cloud judgment.
In essence, blessings await the humble. This isn’t restricted to spiritual gains but extends to our communities and personal spheres.
Through humility, doors of learning and growth swing open. Our interactions become genuine, understanding deepens, and our worldview broadens.
To sum up, humility isn’t just a virtue; it’s vital. It offers learning opportunities, paves the way to divine favor, and safeguards against pride’s pitfalls.
For everyone reading this, remember: humility isn’t about seeing yourself as less, but understanding the world as vast. Adopting humility is a conscious choice, offering both spiritual and worldly rewards.
Daniel 4:30
he said, “Is not this the great Babylon I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty?”
Standing atop his empire, King Nebuchadnezzar’s heart swelled. “Isn’t this Babylon, built by my might and for my glory?” he declared in Daniel 4:30. His hubris, however, was his undoing.
Ezekiel 28:2 speaks of a similar arrogance. The prince of Tyre believed he was god-like, seated among deities. He confused human achievements with divine omnipotence. Both leaders failed to see their overestimation and the impending fallout.
Such stories are not unique to biblical texts. Isaiah 14:12-15 recounts Lucifer’s audacious ambition. The angel, intoxicated by his beauty, sought to surpass God. His pride led to his fall from grace.
Now, if I were to draw a parallel in the real world, Nokia’s story comes to mind. Once heralded as the undisputed leader of mobile technology, the company rested on its laurels.
Just like Nebuchadnezzar believed his empire was unshakable, Nokia was confident that its reign would last. The tech landscape, however, was shifting beneath their feet.
Competitors introduced innovations while Nokia remained content in its past glories. Ultimately, this overconfidence and resistance to change led to its staggering decline.
From kings to corporations, a pattern emerges: pride precedes downfall. These narratives underline the need for humility. It’s easy to bask in success but vital to recognize its fleeting nature. Pride blinds us, often leading to unforeseen consequences.
History, biblical or otherwise, is a teacher. It reminds us to temper success with humility, knowing that unchecked pride has led many astray.
More bible verses about being proud
Daniel 4:31
Daniel 4:32
Proverbs 6:16-18
Proverbs 11:21
Galatians 6:3
1 Corinthians 3:18
Proverbs 26:12
Romans 12:3
James 1:26
2 Corinthians 12:11
Galatians 2:6
2 Corinthians 3:5
James 4:6
1 Peter 5:5
Psalm 138:6
Job 22:29
Isaiah 2:17
Philippians 2:3
Jeremiah 9:23
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Pride kills: Here is how to overcome it.
1. Let love lead
You can’t love God and be proud.
When God’s love comes into our hearts, it reminds us of who we are.
We are nothing before God.
We were created from the dust, and we will return to the dust one day.
Our wealth and anything that drives pride in our hearts become meaningless.
When true love comes in, we automatically become humble and loving.
We quickly understand that we must love others as we love ourselves.
That’s exactly what happens when you become born again.
You recognize that the whole world is vanity, and so, what’s the point of being proud?
The scripture says,
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
2. Always give God the glory
Don’t get carried away with your blessings.
Everything a man receives must come down from heaven.
The scripture says, “A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven.
In other words, you have not achieved anything on your own.
If we give God the glory, pride will definitely be far from us.
May God take away all vices in our lives, including pride, and replace them with humility and wisdom. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Bible verse about pride?
Proverbs 16:18 is clear: “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” It warns against pride’s dangers. Pride can be a precursor to downfall.
What Psalm talks about pride?
Psalm 10 dives deep into pride. Verses 2-4 paint a vivid picture: the proud shun God, act wickedly, and boast. It’s a reminder: pride distances us from the divine.
What are the best proverbs about pride?
The book of Proverbs has several verses addressing pride, but here are a few of the most poignant:
- Proverbs 11:2: “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”
- Proverbs 29:23: “A man’s pride will bring him low, but the humble in spirit will retain honor.”
- Proverbs 13:10: “Only by pride comes contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.”
What is the punishment for pride in the Bible?
The Bible is consistent: pride leads to separation from God and ruin. Proverbs 16:18 cautions against pride preceding destruction. James 4:6 reminds us, “God opposes the proud but graces the humble.”
What are examples of pride in the Bible?
Several biblical narratives highlight pride:
- King Nebuchadnezzar’s pride transforms him into a beast (Daniel 4).
- The Tower of Babel’s builders face language confusion as pride’s consequence (Genesis 11:1-9).
- The Pharisees’ pride in righteousness blinds them to true humility (Luke 18:9-14).
Is there a Bible verse about being proud of yourself?
The Bible values humility over self-pride. Galatians 6:14 directs us: “Boast only in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Boasting finds value when centered on the divine.
Can you find a Bible verse about being proud of your child?
Proverbs 23:24-25 resonates with parents. “A righteous child brings joy; a wise son, delight.” It celebrates righteous choices and parental pride in them.
What’s the difference between “proud” and “pride” in the Bible?
Both terms, “proud” and “pride”, warn against arrogance. “Proud” describes someone; “pride” denotes the attitude. Context matters; sometimes, these words signal positive feelings, like parental joy.
Could you share some proverbs about pride and humility from the Bible?
Certainly! Here are a few Proverbs that discuss pride and humility:
- Proverbs 11:2: “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.”
- Proverbs 18:12: “Before destruction a man’s heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor.”
- Proverbs 22:4: “The reward for humility and fear of the LORD is riches and honor and life.”
- Proverbs 29:23: “One’s pride will bring him low, but he who is lowly in spirit will obtain honor.”
Akatakpo Dunn
Dr. Akatakpo Dunn is a dedicated follower of Christ, an active member and speaker, and an ongoing learner of the Scriptures. Passionate about his faith and serving others, he is committed to sharing his spiritual journey and insights to inspire and uplift fellow believers. He has been active in the church for more than 23 years. Through The Faithful Christian Blog, Dr. Dunn combines his love for God, philanthropy, and Scripture, providing a valuable resource for those seeking to grow in their faith. Follow me: on Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.