Montrose, Colorado

Rev. Willis A. (Bert) Jones, a country preacher & Bible teacher

We think of "Pride" as a valuable asset to a person, yet the scriptures teach otherwise. We do need to think good about ourselves. We need to develop humility, not being ashamed about what we have accomplished, but to recognize our success is the result of input from others, and from God himself.

The Bible, in the Book of Proverbs, stated the following:

"First pride, then the crash- the bigger the ego, the harder the fall." - (Proverbs 16:18 --The Message) Some other translations render the Hebrew as following: "Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall" (KJV) ; "Pride goeth before destruction, and an high mind before the fall." (Geneva Bible); "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall." (NIV) (Note the underlines.)

What are we to do? How do we keep pride down? Check out 1 Corinthians 4:7; "For who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?" -- (NIV) Jesus said "Without me you can do nothing." (John 15:5) We have gained knowledge, as well as wisdom from God and other people.

The Scriptures also say:"These six things the LORD hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren."Proverbs 6:16-19 (NKJV)

Beware of Pride! Pride absolutely leads to a FALL!