Issues of the Heart – Pride

Let us bow down and worship our Lord

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HcnfT4arZtI

In our introductory study on the issues of the Heart, we caught a glimpse of the greed and covetousness in the heart of Gehazi. We were able to understand that these issues were already within his heart, and we watched them begin to spring forth at the opportune time.

Issues of the heart, we might say, are those issues deep within our heart that we may or may not realize are there. For example, I know that I struggle with pride. I now understand why God so hates pride. It really is self, lifted up as an idol.  

Proverbs 6:16-19

   There are six things the Lord hates—
    no, seven things he detests:
   haughty eyes,  (pride)
    a lying tongue, (lying)
    hands that kill the innocent,  (murder)
   a heart that plots evil,  (wicked heart)
    feet that race to do wrong, (wickedness)
   a false witness who pours out lies, (dishonesty)
    a person who sows discord in a family.  (troublemaker)

Keep in mind, that it was pride that caused Satan to be cast down from heaven, for this is just one of his characteristics. One of the effective ways that he can keep you from being full of the Holy Spirit is to keep you full of yourself.

Pride is the opposite of humility and takes on different forms. Some examples would be;

·        (self-righteous)  You forget that you are a sinner saved by grace

·        (self-absorbed)  Your thoughts are on how miserable you are / how wonderful you are

·        Pride is arrogant, quarrelsome and destructive in relationships, homes and society.

Among Christians the challenge to overcome pride is a common struggle. Through the beauty of His Word and His Faithfulness we can be encouraged to pray for this altar of pride within our hearts’ to be cast down.

Let’s discuss Heart Questions

1.     Can you think of three (3) reasons how pride in your life can be harmful?

2.     Do you see pride in yourself?

3.     Is there such a thing as, good pride?

Take a look at these scriptures to see that in God and His works we can enjoy true pride.

2 Corinthians 5:12 

Are we commending ourselves to you again? No, we are giving you a reason to be proud of us, so you can answer those who brag about having a spectacular ministry rather than having a sincere heart.

2 Corinthians 7:4 

I have the highest confidence in you, and I take great pride in you. You have greatly encouraged me and made me happy despite all our troubles.