“All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but MOTIVES (rûach: our thoughts) ARE WEIGHED BY THE LORD (He knows what’s in our heart). Commit to the LORD whatever you do…The LORD DETESTS ALL THE PROUD of heart. Be sure of this: THEY WILL NOT GO UNPUNISHED.” (Proverbs 16:2-5) “These things the LORD hates…A PROUD LOOK…” (Proverbs 6:16-17) “God OPPOSES (antitassomai: to range in battle against) the proud but shows favor to the humble.” (James 4:6)
God hates pride and will go to battle against the proud to prevent it. Jesus said to His disciples, “This very night YOU WILL ALL FALL AWAY on account of me, for it is written: “‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock WILL BE SCATTERED.’” (Matthew 26:31) Peter replied, “Even if all fall away on account of you, I NEVER WILL (well Peter, it was prophesied that you will, that’s pride talking).” “Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “this very night, before the rooster crows, YOU WILL DISOWN ME THREE TIMES.” But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will NEVER disown you.” (Matthew 26:33-35) Peter denies Christ three times Mark 14:66-72
Jesus said to Peter, “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to SIFT (siniazō: inward agitation to try one’ s faith) ALL OF you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, THAT YOUR FAITH MAY NOT FAIL. And when you have TURNED BACK (repented), strengthen your brothers.” (Luke 22:31-32) Satan is requesting permission from Jesus to attack Peter, and because of PETER’S PRIDE Jesus grants permission. In John 21, Jesus works with Peter to get him to repent, and Peter becomes a great disciple.
Your Personal Pastor -Bill Stockham