Pride and Success

“You were the model of perfection, full of wisdom and exquisite in beauty. You were in Eden … Your clothing was adorned with every precious stone … I ordained and anointed you as the mighty angelic guardian.” – Ezekiel 28:12-14 NLT

Ezekiel’s prophecy about the king of Tyre seems to describe an ideal life. He was “the model of perfection, full of wisdom and exquisite in beauty.” He was powerful, wealthy, and intelligent. His countenance was spectacular. Possessing rich spiritual gifts, he was blameless and anointed. Chosen by God, he dwelt in His presence and had access to His holy mountain. Yet with all these blessings, he still rebelled against God and became puffed up with pride.

This pattern provides a warning to us. We can dream of the successes experienced by this king without realizing that it can become a trap. Filled with thoughts about ourselves, we can become self-centered and dominated by pride, rebelling against God, and rejecting His Word.

God knows how easily any of us can experience this kind of fall, how easily even the most spiritual believers can fall into sin and rebellion.

This passage also provides a picture of what happened to Satan, who is described here. Satan, too, was anointed, attractive, and gifted. Yet with all this, he still rebelled against God and became His enemy. Ultimately his successes made him eager and willing to reject God and go his own way. They did not keep him from sinning or defying God.

Stay on guard, and be careful not to glory in your accomplishments, skills, or appearance. Remember to stay humble before God, and give Him all the praise, honor, and glory!

Reflection Question: Write a prayer repenting of all the pride in your life and accomplishments.