“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall” (Prov. 16:18).

The destructive nature of pride is on display every day. It does not take long to find examples of pride all around us. Let’s remind ourselves that we are not immune to pride’s temptation. If we give in to it, we bring upon ourselves trial and trouble, sin and death.

Pride destroys humility. Pride is the opponent of humility as it estimates and elevates itself above others. The proud person is haughty and conceited; he is more concerned with himself instead of humbly serving others (cf. Rom. 12:16). By destroying humility, pride destroys the servant heart that treats others gently.

Pride destroys remorse for sin. The contrite heart is crushed by its sin, but the proud heart is obstinate and unmoved by the mercy of God whose grace saves through faith. God said, “I will dwell in the high and holy place with him who has a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones” (Is. 57:16). God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). Why? Because the proud of heart resist Him (none will be saved against their will), refusing to yield to Him in obedient faith.

Pride destroys generosity. Pride, by definition, is selfish in its arrogance and impatient toward others. Generosity, when rightly practiced, comes from a humble, thankful heart (1 Tim. 6:17-19).

Pride hardens the heart against God. The hardening of Pharaoh’s heart, despite the inescapable testimony of God’s power and supremacy, is traceable to pride. By exalting himself against God he brought upon himself and his land a devastating judgment (Ex. 9:16-17). Dear reader, do not harden your heart against God and the testimony of His truth, for you will not overthrow God, either.

Pride destroys the soul. Pride is an abomination to God (Prov. 6:16-17). Those who elevate themselves will be humbled by God (Luke 18:14). On judgment day, only the humble will enter glory.

Let us be wise by being humble: “When pride comes, then comes shame; but with the humble is wisdom” (Prov. 11:2).