Too Much Pride, Not Enough Wisdom

By: Undre Griggs, Jr.

If asked to list some of the most undesirable traits a person can have, pride would likely be high on the list. Pride can manifest itself in our lives in many ways. Pride can arise from wealth, appearance, knowledge, talent, influence/power, and the social status one occupies. Pride is a self-destructive trait that makes it hard for us to ask for help. It also makes it near impossible for us to admit when we are wrong. Pride makes it challenging for us to maintain relationships; as it is difficult for a prideful person to forgive and empathize with others. A lack of humility creates the illusion that we are never wrong, and someone who believes that does not have the patience for imperfection.

Proverbs 16:5 (ESV): Everyone who is arrogant in heart is an abomination to the Lord; be assured, he will not go unpunished.

Pride puts a strain on all relationship, including our relationship with God. A prideful person will find becoming a Christian unnecessary. They will not be able to see their shortcomings, so they cannot see the need for a Savior. They will see themselves as a “good person” who does the best they can when they can.

Proverbs 11:2 (ESV): When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.

A humble person knows they need a Savior because a humble person understands their own shortcomings. Furthermore, they know they need a Savior they don’t deserve and salvation is a debt they could never repay. They are willing to devote their lives to expressing their appreciation through obedience, kindness to others, and selflessness. A prideful person lacks the awareness to properly judge the debt they owe Jesus Christ. Of all the shortcomings a prideful person possesses, this the most detrimental. They will be defiant and unwilling to submit themselves to the will of God and follow His wisdom. If they frequently rely upon themselves, God’s wisdom may be too perplexing for some to make the leap of faith. God’s wisdom is not of this world and requires a trust that surpasses all understanding. A trust that only a humble person is capable of achieving. Whenever we begin to look inward at our successes instead of upward to the true source, we run the risk of turning a gift into a curse.