Proverbi 16:18-20 “La superbia precede la rovina, e lo spirito altero precede la caduta. 19 È meglio essere umili con i poveri che spartire la preda con i superbi. 20 Chi presta attenzione alla parola se ne troverà bene, e beato colui che confida nel Signore!”
Quite clearly the subject of pride is the predominant theme in these verses revealing the negative aspect of pride. There is a positive side of pride when Paul states that he is proud of the believers (2 Corinthians 7:4). But nearly all the references to pride in the Bible have a negative connotation. The outcome is worthy of careful study. The words “destruction, fall, share plunder” (a profit gained through dishonest or violent means) remind us that pride in the things of this world will be our downfall. Pride is associated with “a haughty spirit.” It is a phrase rarely used in our vocabulary today and simply means that one thinks of himself as better than everyone else. Remember the kings in the book of Daniel? All of them were filled with pride and God brought them down.
The paradox in verse 19 may be uncomfortable for us because we believe that there must be a balance somewhere in the middle. Solomon, who was rich, said it was better to be poor and humble than to be rich and proud. Yes, it is possible to be rich and humble! But the difficulty is that so few people who have acquired riches remain humble. In 1 Timothy 6:17, Paul reminded Timothy to counsel those who had much not to be arrogant: “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth…”
Pride in the things of this world affects your dependency on God, will make you more self-absorbed, opens you up to other temptations and may cause your love for this world to outweigh love for your future glory. Beware of pride!
Pray with me: Lord, I read the warnings You give in today’s word on the negative consequences of pride. Help me to not think arrogantly regarding riches or others; help me to stay humble as I see Your blessings poured out on me.
