The Deadly Virus: Pride
The Bible says, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall” (Proverbs 16:18). This truth reminds us that before pride brings about our downfall, it first takes root in our hearts. As it is written, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6).
Pride is a deadly disease that does not need to be demonized before it attacks you. Those afflicted by pride become blinded to their need for God. Remember the warning from Proverbs 18:12: “Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honour.”
Consider the example of the great archangel who fell—Satan, formerly known as Lucifer. In Isaiah 14:12-15, we read how his desire to ascend above his station led to his fall. He was once the bearer of light, having “tasted the presence of God” and experienced a joy meant only for the faithful. Yet, because he allowed the spirit of pride to take over, his destiny was turned upside down. Instead of living in the perpetual light of God’s presence, he now resides in darkness. As Romans 1:29-32 reminds us, when pride reigns, it leads to every kind of wickedness and separation from God.
We are reminded that we are made from dust and to dust we shall return (Genesis 3:19). This humble beginning is a call for us not to elevate ourselves above our true nature. Even the mighty Nebuchadnezzar in the book of Daniel (chapters 3 and 4) was humbled by pride. Though empowered by God and revered by many, his heart was lifted up in arrogance until God humbled him. As Daniel 4:37 declares, “Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven... for all his works are true and his ways just. And those who walk in pride he is able to humble.”
This is a stark reminder: Pride can make a great person become nothing. When we take God for granted, our destiny can be derailed. The Bible warns us repeatedly not to let pride rule our lives. In Philippians 2:3-4, we are urged, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” Pride distorts our vision and disrupts our relationship with God.
Some of you may come from families or social circles where honour and status are highly valued, and it is easy for pride to infiltrate your spirit. Yet, the Bible calls us to a different standard. “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted” (Luke 14:11). Let us then be vigilant in guarding our hearts against this deadly virus.
Even men of God can fall prey to the temptations of pride. There are testimonies of leaders who, swayed by their elevated status, began to cause harm to others—abusing their positions and straying from the humble path. The Bible reminds us in Romans 12:3, “For by the grace given to me I say to every one of you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think.” Pride not only distorts our self-perception but also blinds us to the truth that with Christ we are something, and without Him, we are nothing.
As we continue, let us remember that resisting pride is a daily battle. Pray against its entrance into your heart. “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). Let us cast out pride before it ruins our destiny and the glorious purpose that God has in store for us.
Before you let pride begin to fool you or dominate your life, let us run away from its snares for our dear life. Our calling is not to exalt ourselves but to exalt God. In all things, let our lives be a reflection of humility, as we honour the One who has given us everything.
I pray, in Jesus’ name, that God will help us to recognize and root out pride wherever it seeks to enter our hearts. Let us live with the awareness that humility is our shield against the deadly virus of pride. If you are here to give your life to Christ, say this after me:
“Lord Jesus, I want to give my life to You. Forgive me for all my wrongdoings. I am ready to escape my sin, and I promise not to let pride rule my life again. I accept You as my Lord and Savior, in Jesus’ name, forever.”
Remember, we are here to glorify God, not ourselves. May His grace guide us and protect us from the lure of pride.
For more, visit our website @ zionexperience.com.ng and any enquiries, email us at zionexperience11@gmail.com
