Guide Against Spiritual Pride
Author: Ayodeji Oludapo
Date: January 10, 2025
Scripture: “The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed, ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’ But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’” —Luke 18:11-13 (NIV)
Devotional Thoughts
Spiritual pride is one of the most insidious and subtle traps in our Christian walk. Unlike visible sins, it hides within the folds of our spiritual disciplines—prayer, fasting, giving, or service. It masquerades as devotion, yet it disconnects us from God because it exalts ourselves above others.
The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector provides a vivid picture of spiritual pride and true humility. The Pharisee prided himself on his spiritual practices. His prayer was not truly directed to God but was a self-promotion session. His attitude reflected an assumption that he was inherently better than the tax collector due to his deeds.
On the other hand, the tax collector came before God with a broken spirit. He did not list his merits or achievements. Instead, he acknowledged his sin and his deep need for God’s mercy. Jesus declared that the tax collector, not the Pharisee, went home justified before God.
This story reminds us that spiritual exercises—prayer, fasting, and serving—are meant to draw us closer to God, not elevate us above others. True spiritual growth leads to humility, as we recognize God’s grace as the source of any progress in our lives.
Practical Reflection
Examine Your Motives: Regularly ask yourself: “Why am I praying, fasting, or serving?” If your motivation is to appear holy to others or to compare your spirituality with others, it’s time to repent.
Focus on God, Not Yourself: Spiritual practices should be about drawing near to God, not showcasing yourself. Acknowledge His greatness and your dependence on Him.
Celebrate Others’ Growth: Instead of competing spiritually, celebrate when others grow in faith. View their victories as a shared testimony of God’s goodness.
Embrace Accountability: Surround yourself with godly friends who can lovingly point out any pride creeping into your spiritual walk.
Closing Thoughts
Spiritual pride is dangerous because it blinds us to our own need for God’s grace. It feeds on comparison, leaving us with a false sense of superiority. The key to overcoming it lies in humility, intentionality, and focusing our hearts on God’s glory. Let us approach God with a heart like the tax collector—aware of our shortcomings and reliant on His mercy.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your abundant grace and mercy. I confess that there are times when pride creeps into my heart, especially in my spiritual walk. Teach me to approach You with humility, acknowledging my need for Your grace daily. Help me to see others as You see them and to celebrate their growth instead of comparing myself to them. Shape me into someone who walks humbly with You, always giving You the glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.