Pride doesn’t just affect how we view ourselves—it seeps into our relationships with others. It often manifests through slander, gossip, and the belief that we are superior to those around us. Pride-filled eyes and a haughty heart create division and strife in our communities. Today’s message speaks to the hidden dangers of pride, especially when it leads us to tear others down instead of building them up.
Today’s Scripture
“Whoever secretly slanders his neighbor, him I will destroy; the one who has a haughty look and a proud heart, him I will not endure.”
— Psalm 101:5 (NKJV)
Pride’s Manifestation in Slander and Arrogance
1. The Destruction Caused by Slander
One of the ways pride subtly manifests is through slander. Speaking ill of others in secret is often rooted in pride, as it assumes a moral or personal superiority over someone else. Slander damages not just the person being spoken about, but also the speaker, corrupting the heart and fostering division within the community.
James 4:11 warns, “Do not speak evil of one another, brethren. He who speaks evil of a brother and judges his brother, speaks evil of the law and judges the law.” When pride causes us to slander others, we take a posture of judgment rather than love and humility. God sees this and, as Psalm 101:5 reminds us, He will not tolerate such behavior.
2. Haughty Eyes and a Proud Heart
Pride is often evident in the way we look at others. Haughty eyes are those that look down on people, seeing them as lesser or unworthy. A proud heart is full of self-righteousness, believing that one’s own achievements or status place them above others. This mindset is contrary to the teachings of Jesus, who constantly modeled humility and service.
Philippians 2:3 teaches us, “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.” The heart of pride, however, resists this command, choosing instead to elevate oneself at the expense of others.
3. The Danger of Secret Sin
What makes slander and arrogance particularly dangerous is their hidden nature. Pride often works in secret, subtly influencing our thoughts and actions. We may not even realize how much pride has taken hold until its effects become visible in our lives, through strained relationships or a hardened heart.
Proverbs 16:2 reminds us, “All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirits.” We may not see the full extent of pride’s grip on us, but God does. He will not endure a heart filled with arrogance or tolerate those who harm others through pride-fueled actions.
A Call to Humility and Restoration
To overcome pride, we must first recognize it in ourselves and actively resist the temptation to slander or look down on others. Humility begins with acknowledging that every good thing we have comes from God, not from ourselves.
Isaiah 66:2 says, “But on this one will I look: On him who is poor and of a contrite spirit, and who trembles at My word.” When we walk in humility, we create space for God’s grace to flow into our lives, transforming our hearts and our relationships with others.
Conclusion
Slander and arrogance are destructive forces rooted in pride. They tear down rather than build up and create division rather than unity. God calls us to resist these tendencies, choosing instead to walk in humility and love. Let us guard our hearts against pride, seeking to honor God in our thoughts, words, and actions.
Prayer
Lord, forgive me for any prideful thoughts or actions that have harmed others. Help me to walk in humility, valuing others above myself and refraining from slander. May my heart be pleasing to You in all things. Amen.
