Definition of Pride in a Biblical Context
Pride is more than just confidence or self-esteem. Biblically, pride is an inward attitude of self-exaltation that places one’s own will, desires, or achievements above God’s authority and others’ value. It often leads to rebellion, boasting, and spiritual blindness. It is the root of many other sins.
“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
— James 4:6; Proverbs 3:34
Theologically, pride is the original sin that led to Satan’s fall (Isaiah 14:12–15), and it continues to be the heart of rebellion against God.
1. The Pride of Adonijah (1 Kings 1:5)
Adonijah, one of King David’s sons, provides a clear example of pride fueled by self-ambition. Instead of honoring God’s plan and his father’s authority, he arrogantly declared himself king.
“Now Adonijah the son of Haggith exalted himself, saying, ‘I will be king.’ And he prepared for himself chariots and horsemen, and fifty men to run before him.”
— 1 Kings 1:5
Adonijah’s pride reflects how self-promotion and presumption can lead to judgment and failure. He was ultimately rejected, and Solomon—whom God had chosen—was crowned instead (1 Kings 1:39–40). Pride can blind us to divine order.
2. The Pride of the Israelites (2 Chronicles 36:15–17)
Israel repeatedly fell into pride by rejecting God’s commands and persecuting His prophets. Their hearts became hard, and they refused correction.
“They mocked God’s messengers, despised His words, and scoffed at His prophets until the wrath of the Lord was aroused against His people and there was no remedy.”
— 2 Chronicles 36:16
“They became stiff-necked and refused to listen.”
— Nehemiah 9:29
This shows that pride is often expressed as spiritual stubbornness—a refusal to repent or obey God’s Word. Such arrogance leads to God’s judgment, as seen when He allowed the Babylonians to conquer and exile His people (2 Chronicles 36:17).
3. The Pride of Moab (Jeremiah 48:29–31)
Moab, a neighboring nation of Israel, became infamous for national pride and self-glory. God condemned this attitude.
“We have heard of Moab’s pride—how great is her arrogance!—of her conceit, her pride and her insolence; but her boasts are empty.”
— Jeremiah 48:29–30
“Therefore I wail over Moab… I moan for the people of Kir-hareseth.”
— Jeremiah 48:31
Pride doesn’t just affect individuals—it can destroy entire nations. Moab’s downfall was rooted in its boastful heart. God mourned over them, showing both His justice and compassion (Ezekiel 33:11).
4. Other Biblical Examples of Pride
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Pharaoh hardened his heart despite many signs from God (Exodus 7–12; Nehemiah 9:10).
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King Nebuchadnezzar was humbled after boasting of his power (Daniel 4:30–37).
“Those who walk in pride He is able to humble.”
— Daniel 4:37
These stories demonstrate that pride always challenges God’s sovereignty—and God always responds by humbling the proud to reveal His glory.
The Spiritual Danger of Pride
Pride leads to separation from God, the downfall of leaders, and destruction.
“Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”
— Proverbs 16:18
Pride is fundamentally a self-centered orientation that robs God of the honor He alone deserves. The proud cannot see their need for grace, and that blindness leads to ruin.
Christ: The Perfect Example of Humility
Unlike the prideful, Jesus Christ—though fully God—humbled Himself to serve and save humanity.
“…He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross.”
— Philippians 2:8
As followers of Christ, we are called not to exalt ourselves, but to walk in humility, depending wholly on God.
A Call to Repentance and Humility
If pride has kept you from surrendering to God, now is the time to turn back. Choosing Jesus Christ is the greatest decision you can make—one that leads to eternal life and peace with God.
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up.”
— James 4:10
If you’re ready to repent and receive Christ, you can start with a Prayer of Repentance.
[Click here to pray >> Prayer of Repentance]
Shalom. May God give us the grace to walk in humility.
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