standing small

I have known men who stood in pride. I have felt the disgust wash over me when prideful men have arrogantly shown contempt for others. I have felt anger when they have strutted in untouchable pride. I have heard their proud voices bark orders to those over whom they had authority. I have even been humiliated by a few.

   Everyone who is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD;
   Assuredly, he will not be unpunished.
                                                                                    -Proverbs 16:5

The man of pride will receive his due. Yet, as I read and wonder at the truth of this proverb, I do not smile. Even when I consider that the proud man ‘deserves’ God’s wrath, I find little satisfaction in his end.

You see, we have all stood before God in pride, the pride of sin. At one time or another we have all pridefully opposed God by going our own way. We are all guilty before the pure and holy Creator. We all ‘deserve’ His wrath.

Can you envision the man of pride standing before the Supreme Judge? His chest does not swell any longer; his words a whisper, trembling knees, eyes looking downward. Can you see how small he stands?

It is truly reassuring that our God is just. Sin will not go unpunished. Pride will not go unpunished. But how terrifying it is . . . . Are any of us truly great? Truly powerful?

Holy is our God, the Judge.

Keep yourself from pride.

The proud will be brought low.