Spiritual Danger
Pride is a subtle yet powerful force that can infiltrate our lives in ways we might not even realize. It can make us believe that we are self-sufficient, that we don’t need God, or that we can earn our own salvation through our good deeds. However, this mindset is not only spiritually dangerous but also detrimental to our relationships with others and God. Let’s delve into the issue of pride, its consequences, and why we need to let it go and let God take control.
The Illusion of Self-Sufficiency
One of the most insidious aspects of pride is that it makes us think we can work for our own salvation. The thought process goes something like this: “I’m a good person. I do good deeds. I can earn my way to heaven.” This mindset is not only flawed but also spiritually perilous,” as Pastor Jim reminded us in the sermon. It removes the grace that God freely gives to us. Grace is unmerited favor; it’s something we cannot earn, no matter how good we think we are or how many achievements we attain.
When we rely on our own efforts to achieve salvation, we essentially tell God, “I don’t need You.” This is a dangerous place to be because it cuts us off from the very source of our salvation and ignores what Christ did on the Cross for us. Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV) reminds us, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
The Ripple Effect on Relationships
Pride doesn’t just affect our relationship with God; it also impacts how we interact with others. We can feel we are better than others. We can become less gracious to those around us and dismissive of God. We may start to judge others more harshly, thinking, “If I can do it, why can’t they?” This judgmental attitude creates a barrier between us and others, making it difficult to form healthy, loving relationships.
In Matthew 7:1-2 (NIV), Jesus warns us, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” When we let pride take over, we forget this crucial teaching and start to put others down. No one likes to be around someone who is self-centered or boastful.
The Balloon Analogy
Jim used a simple yet powerful analogy to help us understand the impact of pride. Imagine you have a balloon. This balloon represents your pride. As you achieve more, gain more recognition, and rely more on your own efforts, you keep adding air to this balloon. Initially, it might make you feel good. It might even make you smile. But what happens if you keep putting air into this balloon? Eventually, it’s going to pop.
This is exactly what happens when we are arrogant. The more we inflate our egos, the closer we get to a breaking point. And when that balloon of pride pops, it can cause significant damage to our spiritual lives and our relationships with others.
Letting Go and Letting God
So what should we do to avoid this? The answer is simple: we need to let it go. We need to release it and let God take control. Proverbs 16:18 (NIV) warns us, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” To avoid this destruction, we must humble ourselves and recognize our need for God’s grace.
James 4:6 (NIV) tells us, “But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'” When we humble ourselves, we open the door for God’s grace to flow into our lives. This grace not only saves us but also transforms us, making us more like Christ. Jesus tells us that the greatest is he that serves others and humble himself, placing others before him. Below are several ways to keep arrogance from taking over.
5 Practical Steps to Combat Pride
- Acknowledge Your Need for God: The first step in combating our ego is to acknowledge that you need God. Admit that you cannot earn your own salvation and that you rely on His grace.
- Practice Gratitude: Gratitude is a powerful antidote to pride. When you focus on the blessings in your life and thank God for them, you shift your focus from yourself to Him.
- Serve Others: Serving others is a practical way to humble yourself. When you put others’ needs before your own, you practice the humility that Jesus modeled for us.
- Seek Accountability: Surround yourself with people who will hold you accountable. Share your struggles with pride and ask for their prayers and support.
- Pray for Humility: Ask God to help you recognize and combat pride in your life. Pray for a humble heart that seeks to glorify Him rather than yourself.
Closing Thoughts
Pride is a dangerous and destructive force that can lead us away from God and harm our relationships with others. By recognizing our need for God’s grace, practicing gratitude, serving others, seeking accountability, and praying for humility, we can combat this danger and live a more satisfying life, one that honors God. Remember, the key is to let go of our “balloon” of pride and let God take control. Only then can we experience the fullness of His grace and the joy of true humility.
Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes invites you to join us in this Sunday. Together, we can experience God’s Grace and share the love of Jesus with those around us.
