James 4:6, “But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.”

Hey OTP family!! For our consideration today I wanted to compare the proud spirit versus a humble spirit. Our goal is to see how God reacts to both, so we can make corrections on our journey with Christ. Our ultimate goal is to see his face in peace and to please him.

To this end, here are some please consider the following definitions:

Proud

– The Bible defines Proud as self-respect or improper and excessive self-esteem known as conceit or arrogance. Pride can be defined as elevating one`s opinions and thoughts above God`s authoritative Word.

– The dictionary definition, Proud is feeling deep pleasure or satisfaction as a result of one’s own achievements, qualities, or possessions or those of someone with whom one is closely associated.

Humble

– According to Ethos360 Bible Institute, they offer a definition of humble as “True humility seeks to bring glory and honor to God and looks out for the interests of others (Colossians 3.12-14; Philippians 2.3-8). Christ gives us a perfect example of humility. He went to the cross and gave up His life so that others might live.” I would agree with this as well.

– The dictionary states a humble person is not proud and does not believe that they are better than other people.

Let’s also look at “Pride” so we do not confuse it with the “Proud” we are discussing today.

Pride is defined as a feeling of deep pleasure or satisfaction derived from one’s own achievements, the achievements of those with whom one is closely associated, or from qualities or possessions that are widely admired.

Pride may not be considered a bad thing by most. However, if left unchecked, it can lead us to a very bad place within ourselves (our own minds), that will eventually adversely impact how we are perceived/received by others. It will also impact the way we treat others. It will impact the way we are viewed by God. The scriptures say, I Corinthians 10:23, “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify”.  Just because there may be no law prohibiting a thing, does not mean that you have the right to participate in it. Additionally, if does not mean God is pleased with the behavior. However, in the case of Pride, God is very clear.

What does it mean to be proud?

very happy and pleased because of something you have done, something you own, someone you know or are related to, etc.

This proud removes God out of the equation and focuses on the accomplishments of the person, rather than on God, who gave the person the ability.

What is a humble attitude?

Humility is an attitude of spiritual modesty that comes from understanding our place in the larger order of things. It entails not taking our desires, successes, or failings too seriously.

Humility recognizes the accomplishments but never fails to give God his due glory and praise for making the accomplishment possible.

What does God say?

1 Peter 5: 5-6, “ 5 Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for God resists the proud,
But gives grace to the humble.”

6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time,

What is the difference between pride and proud?

Pride refers to the satisfaction that an individual gains from something. Proud, on the other hand, refers to the feeling of pride. Spiritually speaking, the difference between the two words is that pride is a gateway. It looks innocent enough. A person giving themselves a pat on the back for a job well done. But it can lead to an attitude that only recognizes the achievement, and not the God who made the way for the achievement.

We understand that faith without works is dead. God expects us to put some action to our faith – that is how we achieve. However, what God does not accept is sharing his glory with another.

For example. You had faith. You trusted God to make a way, to give you knowledge, to help you pass a test, to give a great interview, etc. You put faith in action with your works. You studied for the test, you practiced different interview techniques, you had your resume prepared and reviewed by a professional, etc. You added works to your faith. When God makes a way, your reaction will tell you where you are.

If your first reaction is to give glory to God, then you are in a place of humility. To this person God gives more grace. However, if your attitude is to glory in your accomplishment, then you are in a place of pride (proud). This person God resists.

Eventually, pride will take over. And your story will be all about you, and less about God.

Trust me, it is impossible to fight against God. It is so much easier to live a blessed life, that is full of grace.

Check where you stand. Are you full of pride? Or are you humble?

If your humble gas gauge is leaning towards pride, repent. Ask God to forgive you and help you have a sincerely humbled heart. Give God his due (glory and praise) for the things he has done in your life and be blessed.