Since I was about 19 years old, I’ve read the chapter of Proverbs that coincides with the day’s date. The amazing thing is that even after all these years, I still find a verse or a passage that strikes me in a whole new way. Today, it was this:
25 He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the Lord shall be made fat.
What it a proud heart? Here’s another translation:
Darby Bible Translation
He that is puffed up in soul exciteth contention; but he that relieth upon Jehovah shall be made fat.
A proud heart is one that thinks more highly of himself than of anything or anyone else. He assumes authority he does not have, and he stirs up enmity among others. He is often a charismatic person, promising those who follow him position, money, and fame. It was his proud heart that got Satan kicked out of heaven. And still, in his pride, he is doing everything he can to persuade people to follow him. His goal is to destroy what God loves, and God loves humankind.
The sad thing is that Satan uses people who also have proud hearts to stir up enmity, contention, hatred, among other people. Such behavior leads to nothing good.
On the other hand, those who trust in the Lord shall be “made fat”–that is, they shall prosper. Maybe not in this life; maybe not according to the standards of this world. But those who trust God will have peace in their hearts, rather than pride. They will have their reward, sometimes in this life but always in heaven.
We need to ask God for wisdom to recognize those who are proud of heart. They are in our government, our schools, our entertainment industry, and yes–even in our churches. Sometimes, they have a huge following among believers. We buy their books, donate to their ministries, only to learn that they are teaching a different gospel and actually dividing believers.
May God protect us from allowing proudness in our own hearts, and wisdom to recognize it in others.
Linda's Bible Study 