In the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, “proud” generally refers to a sense of haughtiness or arrogance, often associated with a disdain for others and a lack of humility before God. Proverbs 16:5 states, “Everyone that is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord,” highlighting the negative moral connotation of pride in biblical teachings.
Scripture
18 Pride goes before destruction,
and a haughty spirit before a fall.
19 It is better to be of a lowly spirit with the poor than to divide the spoil with the proud.
Definition of “Proud” in KJV Bible
The term “proud” in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible underscores the essence of hubris and self-exaltation, which starkly contrasts with the virtues of humility and meekness that are espoused throughout scripture. Proverbs 16:5 emphatically reveals that pride is not merely a personal failing but positions the proud individual as being in opposition to God, further captured in Proverbs 8:13, where the fear of the Lord is said to include hating pride and arrogance. This suggests that pride is not just a character flaw; it is an attitude that distances one from divine favor and moral uprightness.
Moreover, the Bible frequently portrays pride as leading to downfall and destruction, as indicated in Proverbs 16:18, which states, “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” The narrative throughout scripture consistently highlights that the proud are often brought low, illustrating the paradox that those who elevate themselves will ultimately face humiliation (Luke 14:11). In contrast, values of humility are refined through passages like James 4:6, which emphasizes that “God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.” This deeper thematic exploration underscores a moral and spiritual principle: true greatness in the eyes of God is found not in pride, but in a humble recognition of one’s limitations and a reliance on divine grace, which fosters community and reflects the character of Christ.
The portrayal of pride in the KJV Bible extends beyond mere admonishments against arrogance; it reveals a broader theological and moral framework where pride is depicted as a fundamental disruption of relational harmony, both with God and fellow beings. For instance, in Psalms, the proud are often described as those who trust in their own understanding and strength, leading to a spiritual blindness that prevents them from acknowledging their reliance on divine wisdom. This theme serves to illustrate how pride clouds judgment, resulting in a delusion of self-sufficiency that ultimately separates individuals from the blessings and insight that come from a humble heart before God.
Additionally, the New Testament reiterates this principle in various contexts, which not only addresses individual morality but also community dynamics within the early Church. For example, in 1 Peter 5:5, the exhortation to “be clothed with humility” stands as a direct challenge to prideful self-assertion. This verse indicates that while pride may fracture relationships and invoke divine resistance, humility fosters unity and grace, essential traits for the body of Christ. It emphasizes that humility is not simply a personal attribute but a communal necessity that enhances mutual support and harmony. In this light, the biblical narrative surrounding pride urges believers to introspect and cast aside lofty self-regard, thereby embracing an ethos of servitude and reliance on God, which ultimately cultivates a spirit of love and unity within the faith community.
The Dangers of Pride
In the context of the KJV Bible, pride is often depicted as a dangerous trait that leads individuals away from humility and dependence on God. It can foster a sense of self-sufficiency that distances one from divine guidance and wisdom. This self-exaltation can result in a downfall, as it blinds individuals to their own limitations and the need for grace.
The Contrast with Humility
Pride is frequently contrasted with humility in biblical teachings. While pride elevates the self and seeks recognition, humility acknowledges one’s place before God and others. This contrast highlights the biblical principle that true greatness comes from serving others and recognizing one’s dependence on God rather than seeking personal glory.
The Spiritual Consequences of Pride
The KJV Bible illustrates that pride can have spiritual repercussions, leading to a hardened heart and a lack of receptiveness to God’s truth. It can create barriers in relationships, both with God and with fellow humans, as pride often breeds conflict and division. The spiritual journey calls for a recognition of one’s own flaws and a willingness to submit to God’s will, which is fundamentally at odds with a proud disposition.
How to Embrace Humility for Spiritual Growth
Embracing humility is a transformative journey that can significantly enhance your spiritual growth as a Christian. It begins with recognizing that we are all imperfect beings in need of grace, just as Paul reminds us in Romans 3:23. To cultivate humility, start by practicing gratitude—acknowledge the blessings in your life and the ways God has guided you, which can shift your focus from self to the divine. Engage in self-reflection and prayer, asking God to reveal areas where pride may be creeping in, and be open to constructive feedback from others. Remember, humility is not about thinking less of yourself, but rather thinking of yourself less, allowing you to serve others with love and compassion. As you let go of the need to be right or to be in control, you’ll find that your heart opens wider to God’s presence and the needs of those around you, fostering a deeper connection with Him and a more profound sense of community.
Bible References to Pride in KJV:
James 4:6-10: 6 But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
8 Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
9 Be wretched and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom.
10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.
1 Peter 5:5-7: 5 Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you,
7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.
Proverbs 8:13-14: 13 The fear of the Lord is hatred of evil. Pride and arrogance and the way of evil and perverted speech I hate.
14 I have counsel and sound wisdom; I have insight; I have strength.
Proverbs 21:4-5: 4 Haughty eyes and a proud heart,
the lamp of the wicked, are sin.
5 The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance,
but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.
Isaiah 2:11-12: 11 The haughty looks of man shall be brought low,
and the lofty pride of men shall be humbled,
and the Lord alone will be exalted in that day.
12 For the Lord of hosts has a day against all that is proud and lofty, against all that is lifted up—and it shall be brought low;
Proverbs 29:23-24: 23 One’s pride will bring him low, but he who is lowly in spirit will obtain honor.
24 The partner of a thief hates his own life; he hears the curse, but discloses nothing.
Psalm 101:5-6: 5 Whoever slanders his neighbor secretly I will destroy. Whoever has a haughty look and an arrogant heart I will not endure.
6 I will look with favor on the faithful in the land, that they may dwell with me; he who walks in the way that is blameless shall minister to me.
Proverbs 6:16-19: 16 There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him:
17 haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,
18 a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil,
19 a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers.
Isaiah 13:11-13: 11 I will punish the world for its evil,
and the wicked for their iniquity;
I will put an end to the pomp of the arrogant,
and lay low the pompous pride of the ruthless.
12 I will make people more rare than fine gold,
and mankind than the gold of Ophir.
13 Therefore I will make the heavens tremble, and the earth will be shaken out of its place, at the wrath of the Lord of hosts in the day of his fierce anger.
Jeremiah 50:29-32: 29 “Summon archers against Babylon, all those who bend the bow. Encamp around her; let no one escape. Recompense her according to her deeds; do to her according to all that she has done.
30 Therefore her young men shall fall in her squares, and all her soldiers shall be destroyed on that day, declares the Lord.
31 “Behold, I am against you, O proud one, declares the Lord God of hosts, for your day has come, the time when I will punish you.”
32 The proud one shall stumble and fall, with none to raise him up, and I will kindle a fire in his cities, and it will devour all that is around him.
Daniel 4:37-38: 37 Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, for all his works are right and his ways are just; and those who walk in pride he is able to humble.
38 At the same time my reason returned to me, and for the glory of my kingdom, my majesty and splendor returned to me. My counselors and my lords sought me, and I was established in my kingdom, and still more greatness was added to me.
Obadiah 1:3-4: 3 The pride of your heart has deceived you,
you who live in the clefts of the rock,
in your lofty dwelling,
who say in your heart,
“Who will bring me down to the ground?”
4 Though you soar aloft like the eagle,
though your nest is set among the stars,
from there I will bring you down,
declares the Lord.
Luke 1:51-52: 51 He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
52 he has brought down the mighty from their thrones
and exalted those of humble estate;
Romans 12:16-18: Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.
17 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.
18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.
Rev. François Dupont is a dedicated church minister with a wealth of experience in serving spiritual communities. With a calm and serene demeanor, he has been devoted to sharing the message of love, compassion, and tolerance for over two decades. Through his thoughtful sermons, compassionate counseling, and unwavering support, Rev. Dupont has touched the lives of countless individuals, allowing them to find solace and strength during difficult times. His serene presence and deep understanding of the human condition make him a trusted guide for those seeking spiritual nourishment and guidance.