Before A Fall…

“Who does he think he is, anyway? He can’t treat me like this! Doesn’t he know who I am?”

How often have we all felt that way? When we say those words to ourselves, or to others, do we recognize that we are doing so because our pride has been wounded?

Pride is part of our human nature. The American Heritage Dictionary defines pride as, “A sense of one’s own proper dignity or value; self-respect.” Self-respect, properly harnessed, can prevent us from saying or doing things that could bring disgrace on ourselves or our families. After all, “A good name is better than precious ointment” (Ecclesiastes 7:1). It is not wrong to recognize that we have value; indeed, every human being has value in the eyes of the Creator who has given us the potential to become members of His family.

However, when our self-respect is not properly channeled, it can become an unhealthy pride and can lead us to disaster. “Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall” (Proverbs 16:18). Another dictionary definition of pride is, “Arrogant or disdainful conduct or treatment; haughtiness.” Our Creator does not bless those who arrogantly flaunt their pride and demean others. “Whoever secretly slanders his neighbor, him I will destroy; the one who has a haughty look and a proud heart, him I will not endure” (Psalm 101:5).