When Pride Gets too big for Its Britches

Well now, what a sweet pleasure to have you come steppin’ over this way! So, shove that ol’ gate open and come right on up here to this ol’ front porch, friend. Pull yourself a real comfy chair before some ol’ pride comes strutin’ through here all puffed up like a proud ol’ Tom turkey gobbler that done discovered his reflection in a washpan. Pride’s a sneaky lil’ ol’ critter. It seldom knocks on the front door wearin’ a name tag. Most times it comes slippin’ in quieter than a lil’ ol’ field mouse carryin’ off cornbread crumbs.

Peter tells us exactly what to do in 1 Peter 5:6–8: “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he cares for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour.”

Notice how humility, worry, and spiritual warfare are all sittin’ at the very same table. Pride plum says, “I can handle this.” Humility downright says, “Lord, I need You.” Pride clutches trouble until its knuckles turn white. Faith sho’-nuff’ opens its hands and gives the burden to God.

That’s sho’-nuff’ why Isaiah 66:2 says, "Has not my hand made all these things, and so they came into being?” declares the LORD. “These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word." God ain’t impressed by no kind of spiritual kind of peacockin’. He plum draws near to the heart that bows low.

Humility don’t mean thinkin’ you’re plum worthless. It sho’-nuff’ means knowin’ exactly where your strength comes from. A branch don’t git to braggin’ about its fruit while forgettin’ about the tree.

Father, uncover pride wherever it’s hiding in me. Teach me to bow beneath Your mighty hand, surrender my worries, and stay alert to the enemy’s schemes. Give me a tender heart that listens to Your Word and trusts Your timing. Keep my eyes on You instead of comparing myself with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Now, glory be, you gotta be scootin’ on off this porch, friend, and be leavin’ your pretty peacock feathers hangin’ on the fence. A creek reaches the river by stayin’ low, and wheat bows its head when the grain gets real heavy. Walk humbly today because God can do mighty things with a humble heart that don’t need the spotlight. And if pride starts to crowin’ before breakfast, remind