One of the snares that satan likes to use against us is pride. It affects us all! But satan will tempt us by using our pride and vanity against us. And pride comes before a fall. How can we combat this area in our lives? What steps can we take to minimize or eliminate the effective use of pride?
We often do not recognize it in ourselves, but pride is potentially one of the biggest pitfalls. It makes us unable to recognize our own faults—unwilling to apologize when we are wrong. We want to maintain our own ways because of pride. satan loves that because he himself maintains his own ways and does not recognize his own sins. One of the most important lessons God gave His people through Moses was His command for them to remain humble (Deut. 8:3, 11-17). This warning applies to us today as much as it did to ancient Israel—our forefathers. It is only by the grace of God that we have whatever we possess. There is a telling statement for us in Matthew 18:3, “…Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.” Think of it—there is no place for the carnally minded, proud in the coming Kingdom of God. In fact, God resists the proud (James 4:6).
Do you understand the gravity of this verse? Pride will draw you closer to satan’s grasp but will put a wall of separation between you and God. Is your pride worth that tragic price? Will you turn your back on God because of your own vanity? Pride will also incite people to condemn and criticize; it will make us think we know better and that our opinions are wiser and better than anybody else’s. Therefore, we are admonished: “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up” (James 4:10). The more you know God and study His word, the more you will realize just how little you actually are—and that’s a good thing! Always be ready to admit your faults. Correct them and forgive others. When you return good for an evil deed, you will have God as your partner—He will be on your side. He will be your friend and will help you resolve your problems emphatically (James 4:11).
Act and live as true Christians! Ask God daily to help you, and then do your part in fighting against satan’s snare of pride. Your victory over him and yourself will light your path all the way to the Kingdom of God.
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