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How to Handle Our Pride

READ | 1 Samuel 24:1-22

Pride causes us to think we can manage life’s situations ourselves and make our own plans. The first two kings of Israel, Saul and David, illustrate different approaches to handling pride.

Saul’s high opinion of himself resulted in decisions that were contrary to the Lord’s demand. Saul defeated the Philistines. As king, Saul reasoned he should take some spoils of war. But God had said otherwise. 1 Samuel 15:15 says when confronted by Samuel, the king replied his plan was “to sacrifice the animals to the LORD”. God saw through his words to a heart of pride.

If self-centeredness controls our thinking, we’ll seek ways around divine commands to serve ourselves. When caught, we may try to justify our disobedience, as Saul did.

Israel’s second king, David, was chosen while Saul was still on the throne. David demonstrated a willingness to wait for God to initiate his actual reign. He endured Saul’s jealous rages and murder attempts but wouldn’t retaliate. David refused to seize the throne when he had the opportunity. He didn’t allow pride to dominate his thinking. Later, he coveted another man’s wife and committed adultery, but his humbled heart prompted repentance.

To prevent prideful behavior, we must refuse to act independently of the Lord. Like David, we should handle self-centeredness by turning to God in confession. David’s sins were forgiven. But Saul never admitted he’d made any mistakes. His actions led to his downfall.