However, there is a distinction between the kind of pride that God despises (Proverbs 8:13) and the kind of pride we can feel over a work well done (Galatians 6:4) or the kind of pride we express over the accomplishments of loved ones (2 Corinthians 7:4). The kind of pride that comes from self-righteousness or conceit, on the other hand, is sin, and God despises it because it prevents people from pursuing Him.
Psalm 10:4 reveals that the haughty are so consumed with themselves that their thoughts are far away from God: "In his pride, the wicked does not seek him; in all his thoughts, there is no room for God," the Bible says. In contrast to God's desire for humility, this kind of arrogant arrogance is the polar opposite of what God is looking for: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:3). They are people who understand their complete spiritual bankruptcy and their incapacity to approach God apart from God's supernatural grace (those who are "poor in spirit"). While the proud are blinded by their pride, the conceited believe that they do not require God or, worse, that God should accept them as they are because they have earned God's acceptance by their own efforts and accomplishments.
Throughout the Bible, we are cautioned of the consequences of having too much self-confidence. According to Proverbs 16:18-19, "pride precedes ruin, and a haughty attitude precedes a fall." Being poor in spirit and among the oppressed is preferable to participating in the theft of the proud." Because of his arrogance, Satan was expelled from heaven (Isaiah 14:12-15). He had the audacity to attempt to usurp God's position as the lawful ruler of the universe for his own selfish gain. Satan, on the other hand, will be hurled into the depths of hell in God's last judgment. The future holds nothing but calamity for those who defy God and take their lives in their hands (Isaiah 14:22).
What is it about pride that is so sinful? Giving ourselves credit for something that God has accomplished is a form of arrogant arrogance. When we take credit for something that belongs to God alone and hold it for ourselves, we are showing pride. Pride is, at its core, a form of self-adoration. All that we have accomplished in this world would not have been possible without the assistance of God, who has enabled and sustained us. "Can you tell me what you have that you did not receive?" What's more, if you did receive it, why are you acting as though you didn't?" (See 1 Corinthians 4:7 ) That is why we give God the honor and praise, because He alone is deserving of it.
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