Devotional - August 14th, 2026
“Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.” — Matthew 17:21
“Pride convinces us we are standing tallest when we are often closest to falling.” — Alma Ohene-Opare
Commentary:
Pride is destructive because it distorts our vision. It makes us overestimate our own strength and underestimate our dependence on God. A proud heart resists correction, excuses weakness, and begins to believe that success is self-made. Like a driver who refuses to check the mirrors because he is confident in the road ahead, pride narrows our awareness until danger is already upon us.
Freedom itself requires humility. A free people must be willing to govern themselves, admit mistakes, honor moral boundaries, and accept responsibility for their choices. Pride does the opposite. It tells us that rules are for others, consequences can be avoided, and wisdom belongs only to us. In families, communities, and nations, pride can turn strength into arrogance and liberty into license. Moral law does not bend simply because we dislike its limits.
The cure for pride is not thinking less of our God-given worth. It is remembering the source of that worth. Every talent, opportunity, breath, and blessing ultimately comes from the Lord. Humility allows us to receive correction without resentment, success without vanity, and hardship without losing faith. Christ possessed perfect power, yet He walked in perfect humility. Following Him means choosing submission to truth over devotion to ego.
Scripture:
“Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” — Proverbs 16:18
Daily Application:
Examine one area of your life where you resist correction, and prayerfully ask God to show you what humility requires today.