Pride, the sin of self-exaltation and arrogance, stands in opposition to humility and dependence on God. Let’s guard against pride as we explore the verses that caution against its destructive influence, urging us to cultivate a spirit of humility, servanthood, and submission to God’s will in our lives and relationships.
Checkout: Bible Verses About Temptation
Bible Verses About Pride
Proverbs 16:18
“Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”
This verse warns us about the dangers of pride. When we become consumed with our own self-importance or think that we are better than others, it can lead to our downfall. Pride blinds us from seeing our faults and weaknesses, making us vulnerable to mistakes and failures. It is a reminder to stay humble and recognize that all our talents and blessings come from God.
Proverbs 29:23
“Pride brings a person low, but the lowly in spirit gain honor.”
This verse highlights the contrast between pride and humility. While pride can lead to downfall, a humble and lowly spirit is honored. When we have a humble attitude, we are open to learning, growing, and receiving guidance from others. God blesses those who recognize their need for Him and rely on His wisdom and strength rather than their own abilities.
James 4:6
“But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'”
God desires us to have a humble heart. He opposes the proud because pride separates us from Him and hinders our relationship with Him. However, He extends His favor and grace to the humble. When we humble ourselves before God, He exalts us and pours out His blessings upon us.
Proverbs 11:2
“When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”
This verse highlights the negative consequences of pride and the benefits of humility. Pride leads to disgrace, while humility opens the door to wisdom. When we are humble, we are receptive to God’s teachings and guidance, enabling us to make wise decisions and live in alignment with His will.
1 Peter 5:5
“In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'”
This verse highlights the importance of humility in our relationships. Humility allows us to submit to the authority of our elders and to treat one another with respect and kindness. When we have a humble attitude, we foster unity and create a space for God’s favor to flow among us.
Proverbs 13:10
“Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.”
This verse reveals the connection between pride and strife. When pride dominates our hearts, it leads to conflict, divisions, and arguments. However, wisdom is found in those who are humble enough to seek and listen to counsel and guidance from others. Humility fosters peace and enables us to build healthier, more harmonious relationships.
Proverbs 21:4
“Haughty eyes and a proud heart—the unplowed field of the wicked—produce sin.”
This verse illustrates how pride can lead to sinful behavior. When we have a proud heart and an arrogant attitude, it becomes a breeding ground for sin. Pride blinds us to the consequences of our actions and makes us more susceptible to engaging in immoral and wicked behavior. It is a reminder to guard our hearts against pride and seek the righteousness that comes from humility.
Proverbs 8:13
“To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech.”
God detests pride and arrogance. As His followers, we are called to align ourselves with His values and hate the things that He hates. Pride is contrary to the character of God, and it separates us from His presence. Let us strive to cultivate humility and avoid prideful behavior, choosing instead to embrace the wisdom and righteousness that comes from fearing the Lord.
Isaiah 13:11
“I will punish the world for its evil, the wicked for their sins. I will put an end to the arrogance of the haughty and will humble the pride of the ruthless.”
This verse reminds us that God will bring justice to the proud and arrogant. He opposes those who exalt themselves and mistreat others. In His faithfulness, God will humble the prideful and bring them to account for their actions. Let us trust in God’s sovereignty and rest in the knowledge that He will ultimately deal with pride and bring about justice.
Psalm 10:4
“In his pride, the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts, there is no room for God.”
This verse describes the mindset of the wicked, who are characterized by their pride. They have no inclination to seek God or acknowledge His existence. Pride drives them to rely solely on their own abilities and understanding, shutting out the possibility of a relationship with the Creator. It serves as a reminder for us to examine our hearts and ensure that we are cultivating a humble and open attitude toward God.
Proverbs 16:5
“The Lord detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.”
God takes pride seriously and detests those with a proud heart. Pride stands in opposition to God’s nature of humility and love. This verse assures us that the proud will not go unpunished, emphasizing the importance of humility as we approach God. Let us strive to humble ourselves before Him, knowing that He will honor and bless those who walk in humility.
Luke 18:14
“I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
In the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, Jesus teaches us the importance of humility in our relationship with God. The tax collector, who humbled himself before God, was justified rather than the prideful Pharisee. God esteems those who have a humble and contrite heart, honoring their repentance and granting them His grace and forgiveness.
Proverbs 16:19
“Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.”
This verse emphasizes the value of humility over pride. It is better to have a lowly spirit and stand with the oppressed than to partake in the spoils of the proud. Humility allows us to connect with the marginalized and show compassion, while pride fosters a selfish and disconnected mindset. Let us choose to be humble and use our resources to uplift and support those in need.
Philippians 2:3
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves.”
Paul instructs us to live a life of humility, placing the needs and interests of others before our own. By adopting a humble attitude, we reject selfishness and vain conceit. Humility enables us to love and serve others sincerely, reflecting the selfless love of Christ. Let us cultivate humility as we seek to emulate the perfect example set by Jesus.
Proverbs 22:4
“Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.”
This verse reveals the blessings that accompany humility. Humility, which stems from the fear of the Lord, leads to spiritual riches, honor, and a fulfilled life. When we humble ourselves before God and acknowledge His supremacy, He rewards us with His grace, favor, and abundant blessings. Let us embrace humility as we strive to honor and revere the Lord in all that we do.
Romans 12:3
“For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.”
Paul reminds us to have a balanced view of ourselves. Pride distorts our self-perception, causing us to think more highly of ourselves than we should. Instead, we are called to humbly assess ourselves based on the measure of faith God has given us. Humility enables us to recognize our dependence on God and appreciate the unique gifts and talents He has bestowed upon us.
Luke 14:11
“For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
Jesus reiterates the principle that those who exalt themselves will be humbled, while the humble will be exalted. God values humility and lifts up those who choose to lower themselves before Him and serve others sacrificially. Let us follow the example of Jesus, who humbly laid down His life for us, knowing that by doing so, we are guaranteed to receive the ultimate exaltation in His eternal kingdom.
Ephesians 4:2
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”
Paul encourages believers to embrace a life of humility, gentleness, and patience. Humility enables us to relate to one another with kindness and understanding, promoting unity and harmony within the body of Christ. Bearing with one another in love requires humility, as it calls us to put aside our pride and prioritize the well-being of others above our own.
Psalm 138:6
“Though the Lord is exalted, he looks kindly on the lowly; though lofty, he sees them from afar.”
This verse reassures us that God, despite His exalted position, looks favorably upon the lowly. He sees and cares for those who approach Him with humility and a contrite heart. God extends His compassion and grace toward the humble, drawing near to them and meeting their needs. Let us take comfort in knowing that God hears the prayers of the humble and desires to bless and uplift them.
Colossians 3:12
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”
Paul encourages believers to clothe themselves with humility as part of their identity as God’s chosen and beloved people. Humility is a fundamental attribute we should strive to exhibit as we interact with others. When we display humility, it allows us to reflect the character of Christ and demonstrate God’s love through our actions and attitudes.
Matthew 23:12
“For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
Jesus repeats the principle that those who exalt themselves will be brought low, while the humble will be lifted up. This verse serves as a reminder that humility is rewarded in the kingdom of God. When we humble ourselves before Him, acknowledging our need for His grace and mercy, He exalts us by bestowing His favor and blessings upon us.
Psalm 25:9
“He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.”
God promises to guide and teach the humble. When we have a humble posture before God, He leads us in the paths of righteousness. Humility allows us to have a teachable heart, receptive to God’s instructions and insight. Let us seek the Lord with humility, knowing that He will faithfully guide us and direct our steps.
2 Chronicles 7:14
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
This verse holds a powerful promise for those who humble themselves, pray, seek God’s face, and turn from their wicked ways. God responds to the humble cries of His people, offering forgiveness and healing. Humility plays a crucial role in our repentance and restoration before God. Let us humble ourselves and seek His face, trusting that He will hear our prayers and bring healing to our lives and nations.