Pride

Proverbs 11:2 When pride comes, then comes shame: but with the lowly is wisdom. 

‘When pride comes, then comes shame.’ Six examples of shame through pride: Lucifer (Isa. 14:12-14; Ezek. 28:11-17); Miriam (Num. 12:10); Uzziah (2Chr. 26:16-21); Nebuchadnezzar (Dan. 4:30); Moab (Zeph. 2:8-10); Ninevah (Zeph. 2:15).

Lucifer wanted to become like God at the expense of God and everyone else; this was extreme sinfulness against God and nature. It was by this appeal to be like God that Eve was deceived (Gen. 3:5). Christ came to imitate God among men, and to set an example of true God-likeness, that of being like God in consecration to the good of all – not for the good of self-gratification. Thus He repeatedly declared the true nature of consecration and godliness.

National pride because of ancestry, victory in war, learning, riches, and even religion has always been a human weakness. In excess, it causes prejudice, malice and hatred of others of all peoples. In Exodus 22:21 God used the slavery experience of Israel in Egypt to warn them against oppressing other nations and the weak and poor among themselves.

‘With the lowly is wisdom.’ Four examples of wisdom to the lowly: Joseph (Gen. 41:16, 38-39); Solomon (1Kin. 3:5-13); Daniel (Dan. 2:20-21); Jesus Christ (Luke 2:40, 52; Isa. 11:1).