It seems popular these days to have “Pride months” for just about everything, and it seems that many of the things people take pride in these days are classified as sinful in God’s Word. I was frustrated with this recently and found myself wondering and saying, “Why don’t we have a German pride month? Or a heterosexual pride month? Or a Christian pride month?” As soon as I said that last one, I had a funny taste in my mouth. It didn’t sit well, because I know the message of God’s Word.

When the words “pride” and “proud” are used in Scripture, overwhelmingly it is in a negative context. Paul does make some references to being proud of how people are following Jesus, but for the most part, pride is not a good thing in the Bible.

Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.

Psalm 10:4 In his pride the wicked does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God.

Proverbs 29:23 A man’s pride brings him low, but a man of lowly spirit gains honor.

Proverbs 3:34 [God]  mocks proud mockers but gives grace to the humble.

Scripture tells us not to take pride in ourselves, but in our Savior.

2 Corinthians 10:17 “Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.”

When I think about who I am and what I have done, and think about who Jesus is and what He has done for me, I know I have nothing to boast about in me. It is humbling. But I will brag about Jesus all day long to anyone who will listen. He loved me. He lived for me. He died for me. He paid for all my failures, my frustrations, my shortcomings. He even paid for my pride. Thank you, Lord.

When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.

Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast,
Save in the death of Christ, My God;
All the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to His blood.

See, from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down;
Did e’er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?

Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were a tribute far too small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all.

Lutheran Service Book #425