Pride Before the Fall
Walking around with your head held high may be something that comes natural for you. That’s cool! Being able to shine a bright smile directly toward the face of all who approach and never having to consider where you plant each step is something that shouldn’t be taken for granted.
Taking a stroll on these lovely fall days would be fulfilling with the fresh air filling my lungs and the sun warming my face. I would welcome passers by with a wide grin and squinty eyes...right before I stubbed my toe and face planted right in their path.
Having your head held high for pride because you consider yourself above someone else is a bit edgy. I’m not fond of peering into the insides of someones nostrils myself and I wouldn’t want anyone to have to see the inside of mine! Plus, I have to see where I’m going so keeping my head down is kind of natural. And, I like to consider myself humble.
Nebuchadnezzar had some issues with pride and he got thrown down on his face, literally. (Daniel 4:28-33)
I imagine King Neb walking through the palace adorned with beautiful things and patting himself on the back for his greatness. Heck, he may have had people to pat him on the back...maybe even people to raise his own hand for him so that he could pat himself on the back.
He was warned though. Daniel told him what was going to happen to him. (Daniel 4:24-27)
However, Nebuchadnezzar did not repent, nor did he stop patting his own glorious back. As he was walking about, bragging on himself and gloating, BAM! -down he went.
My Bible says, “Immediately” (vs.33)
Ol’ Neb took his punishment and didn’t blame God. On the contrary, when his time of suffering was up, he praised God. After which, he was restored and became even greater than he was before he fell from his pride.
Daniel 4:37 “Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything he does is right and all his ways are just. And those who walk in pride he is able to humble.”
A-MEN!
Now, to me this doesn’t say go ahead and pat yourself on the back, you’ll be even better later.
No-this says, being proud of something is great as long as you remember who gave you the ability, talent, stature, leadership, etc. and make sure to share glory where glory is deserved. Otherwise, He will show you where glory is deserved and it won’t likely be fun.
I’ve been victim of falls from pride. I can relate to this story. Spitting dirt and blood from my mouth will teach me to keep it shut. Banging my head will teach me to focus on the task at hand and any time I try to pat myself on the back, well, just know that I am reminded of who is in charge. I know where my help comes from and I know who allows me to find joy in abilities and gifts that I posses. Maybe that’s one reason I’m inundated with filthy animals day in and day out...just to keep me humble. Ok. I can accept that. The blessings I receive are way too many to count.
