Pride Deceives

Obadiah was a prophet sent to the Edomite nation (v. 1). This short book speaks volumes about the sins of the Edomites and how God was not going to allow their error to continue indefinitely (v. 4, 8-10, 15, 21). Among the sins of the people, God lists pride as a great sin that ruined those people. He said it deceived them (v. 3).

Pride in this text refers to a man’s arrogance, insolence, or presumption. To deceive means “to lead astray, seduce, beguile” (Strong’s). What pride did was lead the Edomites astray from the truth and the reality of God’s power. This is what pride does to men today! God says He hates even the “proud look” (Prov. 6:17). Solomon adds to our understanding by saying that a man’s pride precedes his destruction (Prov. 16:18). Can we see that there is nothing good associated with a man’s arrogance or presumption (pride)? David begged God to “keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins” (Ps. 19:13).

Pride deceives us! In the past, pride deceived Edom into thinking that they were untouchable by the enemy (v. 3). Pride deceives Christians into thinking they cannot be touched by sin. Pride deceives the lost into thinking that they are saved. Let us beware of the danger of pride. It will destroy a nation like Edom, a family, a church, and even an individual (Prov. 16:18)!

What is the cure for pride? It is humility! Rather than being arrogant and haughty, let us be “clothed with humility” (I Pet. 5:5). Let us humble ourselves now that God may exalt us “in due time” (I Pet. 5:6; Jas. 4:10). It is not the most pleasant decision we will make, but it is for the best. Humility now will save us from destruction later.

Christ reminds us, “For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted” (Lk. 14:11). The Edomites were going to experience that truth. What about us? Will we humble ourselves now that we might be exalted later? Friend, don’t let pride deceive you anymore!

- Jarrod M. Jacobs