Romans 11:19-21 Then you will say, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear. For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will he spare you.
Psalms 138:6 For though the LORD is high, he regards the lowly, but the haughty he knows from afar.
Proverbs 28:26 Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered.
Isaiah 2:11 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.
Believers can sometimes think too highly of themselves. We forget that every difference between us and the worst of sinners is because of God’s free, sovereign, and gracious work in our lives. We need to remember that we are still weak and can be overcome, still foolish and prone to wander, still sinful and easily influenced. Satan is strong, determined, subtle, malicious, active, and persistent. The world is attractive, deceptive, empty, and full of traps. Remembering these things keeps us from becoming spiritually careless.
A proud Christian is rarely fruitful and is often allowed to stumble. That is why Scripture warns, “Let anyone who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.” David fell. Peter fell. Thousands of others have fallen too, and their failures still warn us: do not be proud, but walk in reverent fear. “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”
So let us cultivate a humble heart and a steady dependence on God. As we do, we will be kept safe, made holy, and led into lasting joy. (Smith)
