Pride: An Evil That Lurks Behind Humanity

Today I want to talk to you about an evil that stalks humanity: pride. This is an expression of the fallen nature of the human being.

Let us remember that the first sin was not that of Adam and Eve, although they fell before temptation. The first sin was the pride of Satan, who rebelled against God wanting to be like Him. That desire to exalt himself was the root of his fall, and today that same pride can manifest itself in the heart of every person.

The Danger of Focusing on Ourselves

Pride is dangerous because it leads us to put the focus on ourselves and not on God. Therefore, the Bible warns us in Matthew 23:12:

"Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted".

How does this pride manifest today?

Many times we think that by being believers we do not struggle with pride; however, it can appear in many ways:

• Pride for our appearance or image.

• Pride for our children, profession, or achievements.

• Pride for what we possess: house, car, or position.

• Pride within the church: seeking recognition, positions, or approval.

When we do not identify it in time, pride can become something destructive for our spiritual life. As Proverbs 29:23 says: "A man’s pride brings him low, but the humble in spirit obtains honor".

How can we identify harmful pride?

Pride begins to be harmful when our value depends on what we are or what others think of us, instead of depending on God. We can recognize it when:

• We constantly seek approval or recognition.

• We compare ourselves with others and feel envy and insecurity.

• We become defensive when someone questions our achievements.

• Our focus is centered more on ourselves than on God.

When pride affects our peace, our relationships, or our communion with God, it is a sign that we need to hand it over to the Lord.

The Path of Humility

The Bible teaches us that the way to overcome pride is humility. In 1 Peter 5:6 it tells us:

"Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, so that He may exalt you in due time".

A humble heart recognizes that everything we are and have comes from the Lord. Pride can enter in a subtle way, but its consequences are profound. Therefore, it is important to examine our heart and recognize it in time.

Humbling ourselves before God does not weaken us; on the contrary, it draws us closer to Him and transforms our heart. I invite you today that, if you feel pride is manifesting in your life, recognize it, hand it over to the Lord, and pray for it. Remember: pride can distance us from God, but humility always draws us closer.