Arrogance and pride… there are so many indicators of it in our culture… A person’s “look”, their words, and their behavior after a success can all point to pride… Where a person lives can express pride, what they live in, what kind of vehicle they drive, the “stuff” they buy, where they shop – all of these things (and others) can signal pride. My mother used to speak of those who “preen about” when she would talk about arrogant people (look up the word J). We all have ways we describe this ill-advised and despicable sin (and the Bible does describe it as sin – a foundational and root sin).
This morning during my time of “coffee with the Lord” I read a passage that serves as a warning to all of us about human arrogance and pride…
The haughty looks of man shall be brought low, and the lofty pride of men shall be humbled, and the LORD alone will be exalted in that day. For the LORD of hosts has a day against all that is proud and lofty, against all that is lifted up—and it shall be brought low… And the haughtiness of man shall be humbled, and the lofty pride of men shall be brought low, and the LORD alone will be exalted in that day! (From Isaiah 2:11-17 ESV)
You might also find it interesting to check out these verses from the Message paraphrase – pretty graphic! Here it is…
“People with a big head are headed for a fall, pretentious egos will be brought down a peg. It’s GOD alone at front-and-center on the Day we’re talking about! The Day that GOD-of-the-Angel-Armies is matched against all big-talking rivals, against all swaggering big names… The swelled big heads will be punctured bladders, the pretentious egos brought down to earth, leaving GOD alone at front-and-center on the Day we’re talking about.”
Here is what Jesus said… “For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Matthew 23.12) Take it from me… there’s nothing much to brag about in any of us… anything we are is because of God’s provision and grace! Arrogance is a “fools’ game” (and those who play it are sure to ultimately lose)! Just say’n! (No… God is the one who has said it!)
Coffee With The Lord 