Tag: holy spirit

10 Ways God Provides Protection in Ways We May Not Recognise

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God’s Unseen Protection

As Christians, we journey through life not just as God’s creation but as His redeemed children. Yet, even as His own, we may feel vulnerable to both visible and invisible challenges. However, whether we realise it or not, our Heavenly Father’s hand is always at work—shielding, guiding, and providing for us in countless ways. His protection may not always be obvious, but it is intricately woven into the fabric of our daily lives.

As those who have been born again into His family, we walk under a divine covering that the world does not have. Here are some powerful ways in which the Lord protects us, even when we fail to recognise it:

1. Divine Delays

There are times when life doesn’t go according to our plans. We miss a train, encounter unexpected delays, or find ourselves rerouted in ways that feel frustrating. These disruptions can actually be God’s way of protecting us. By allowing a delay, He might be keeping us from danger or setting us up to encounter someone or something He intends for us to experience. While we may see delays as setbacks, they can be God’s unseen hand of protection.

2. Unseen Angels and Spiritual Protection

The Bible reminds us that angels are often at work on our behalf, defending us in ways that we cannot see. Hebrews 1:14 refers to angels as “ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation.” Whether it’s protection from physical harm or spiritual safeguarding, God sends His angels to guard and guide us. Though we may not see them, these divine beings are continually surrounding us, keeping us safe from dangers we may never be aware of.

3. Inner Promptings or “Gut Feelings”

Have you ever had an unexplained feeling that you should take a different route, speak to a particular person, or avoid a certain place? These inner promptings, often felt as “gut feelings,” can be the Holy Spirit’s gentle way of guiding us. Through these subtle nudges, God may be steering us toward opportunities or away from harm. Recognizing and following these promptings can lead us along paths of safety and blessing.

4. Emotional Resilience in Hard Times

In seasons of suffering or difficulty, we may feel an inner strength or peace that surpasses understanding. This resilience is often a gift from God, shielding our hearts and minds when life becomes overwhelming. When we encounter hard times, God’s protective love can fortify us, giving us the endurance and hope to persevere. This strength may not erase our struggles, but it equips us to bear them.

5. Unexpected Provision

God’s protection is also evident in how He provides for our needs, often just in time and in ways we don’t anticipate. Whether it’s a timely financial gift, a helping hand from a friend, or an unexpected opportunity, these blessings are not random. They are expressions of God’s faithfulness, shielding us from scarcity and reminding us that He is our provider.

6. Protection Through Loving Relationships

The Lord often places people in our lives who act as shields and support systems. Family, friends, mentors, and even acquaintances can serve as instruments of God’s protection. These people encourage us, guide us, or offer help during times of need. Their presence may prevent us from making unwise decisions, offering wisdom and love that protects us from harm.

7. Spiritual Growth Through Trials

While difficult times may seem anything but protective, God often allows trials to refine us. These challenges deepen our faith, strengthen our character, and increase our dependence on Him. Though it may not feel like protection at the time, enduring these trials equips us to handle future challenges with a stronger, more resilient spirit, ultimately protecting us in ways we can only see in hindsight.

8. Redirection and Closed Doors

Sometimes, when our hopes or plans don’t work out, it’s easy to feel frustrated or discouraged. But when certain doors close, it may be God’s way of redirecting us to paths that align more closely with His purpose. What we see as disappointment, God sees as divine redirection—a way of protecting us from choices that don’t serve His greater plan for our lives.

9. Scripture and Wisdom as a Guide

The Bible is a powerful tool for our protection. Through His Word, God provides guidance, discernment, and the wisdom to make choices that lead to peace, wholeness, and well-being. When we root ourselves in Scripture, we are less vulnerable to temptation, poor choices, and harm. God’s Word acts as a lamp to our feet, lighting our path and offering a shield of wisdom.

10. Forgiveness and Mercy

One of the greatest ways God protects us is through forgiveness and grace. Rather than allowing us to be consumed by the consequences of our mistakes, He provides mercy that renews us and offers us a fresh start, when we confess our sins to Him and turn from them. Through His forgiveness, God shields us from guilt and harm, encouraging our spiritual growth rather than allowing us to remain trapped in regret.

Conclusion: Trusting God’s Invisible Hand

God’s protection surrounds us daily, even when it goes unrecognized. By reflecting on these subtle yet profound ways He shields and guides us, we are reminded of His faithful love. Trusting in His invisible hand, we can walk forward with confidence, knowing that He is always at work—seen and unseen—guarding and protecting us.

Prayer of Gratitude

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for Your constant love and protection over my life. Even when I cannot see or understand the ways You shield me, I know that Your hand is always guiding and guarding me. Thank You for the unseen angels You send, for the gentle promptings of Your Spirit, and for every delay and closed door that steers me away from harm.

Lord, I am grateful for the strength and peace You give me during difficult times, and for the people You place in my life who offer support and encouragement. Thank You for Your provision, meeting my needs in ways I could never expect. I’m humbled by Your forgiveness and mercy, which shield me from guilt and give me hope each day.

Help me to trust in Your invisible hand, knowing that You are always working for my good. May I walk with faith, finding comfort in Your love and guidance.

In Jesus’ name, I pray,

Amen.

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*** Photo By Rahul Pandit

7 Signs God May Be Testing You

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“Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.” ~ 1 Peter 4:12-19 NKJV

Often times, as born again believers we face difficult situations and wonder if there are deeper reasons for that trial. The Bible teaches that there are certain instances where God uses a circumstance to test us and our hearts. Here are seven signs that God is testing you, with each one serving to reveal, refine, and strengthen your faith.

Seven Signs God May Be Testing You

1. Unusual Delays

When God allows for unusual delays, it’s a test. We see this in the example of Abraham. The testing of Abraham was used to refine his trust and patience in God (Genesis 21:1-3).

Often, unusual delays may show that the test is from God. These sorts of tests reveal things in our hearts and refine our character, perfecting our patience. Ultimately, the lessons learned in these seasons are things that no other season in our lives would show us.

2. Facing Impossible Situations

Secondly, another tell-tale sign is when you’re facing impossible situations. We see in the Bible that God tested Moses and the Israelites by allowing them to face the Red Sea and fear the reality of Pharaoh behind them (Exodus 14:13-14).

If you’re facing an impossible situation, God is not trying to drown you or destroy you. He is testing you. Your fear and doubt may come to the surface during those times, but God desires to bring it up to remove it from within you.

3. Struggles with Provision

Next, when you struggle with provision, you might be tested by God.

It’s easy sometimes for those of us in a spiritual warfare camp to shift blame always on the devil, especially when experiencing financial issues. But sometimes, the Lord might be testing us, just as He did with Israel when they faced lack in the promised land (Deuteronomy 8:3).

God wasn’t attacking them but was revealing, refining, training, and perfecting them. He did provide for them, but He also wanted to perfect them. God is not just interested in providing for you. He’s interested in perfecting you.

4. Trials of Suffering

Another important thing to remember is that trials of suffering often mean experiencing loss and hardship. For instance, in Scripture we see that Job experienced intense suffering, loss, and hardship. During his suffering, we see that Job worshipped even in his grief (Job 1:20-21). He didn’t have answers but chose to trust.

If you’re experiencing this sort of test, it’s important to remember that the way trust in God is expressed is through worship. Life on earth is really a series of losses. Grasping that reality can help you get through trials, knowing life is temporary, and eternal life is what really matters.

5. Temptations to Compromise

Next, when you’re facing temptations to compromise, it’s a test.

Daniel was tested to see if he would conform to Babylonian customs (Daniel 6:10). In the same way, God may test your integrity and obedience to His word in situations where obeying Him might cost you. In temptation, the enemy entices you to sin, but God reveals what’s in your heart, refines your character, perfects your godliness, and trains you in righteousness.

6. Opportunity to Help Others

When you have the opportunity to help others despite being in hardship, it’s a test.

In scripture, we see that Joseph, despite his own hardships, was faithful in serving others (Genesis 39:4-5). Often, God tests our willingness to serve and bless others, even in difficult situations. Joseph, even while imprisoned, served his fellow prisoners and interpreted their dreams.

It’s a test: Will you show up and help others when you’re struggling? Remember, you’re not giving out of your lack but from what Jesus has given you.

7. Silence from God

Lastly, experiencing silence from God can be a test.

Jesus was tested in the wilderness during a period of isolation and silence, with only the voices of Satan. Sometimes, when God is “silent,” it’s because the test is in progress (Matthew 4:1-2).

When God is silent, remember everything He’s taught you prior. The silence is not abandonment but a test.

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**By Pastor Vladimir Savchuk / Photo by Louis Bauer at Pexels

When God Closes a Door: Understanding Divine Redirection

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Life is full of opportunities, but also disappointments. We’ve all experienced moments when a door we wanted to walk through—whether in career, relationships, finances, or ministry—suddenly closes. These closed doors can feel frustrating, confusing, or even painful.

However, God’s closed doors are never without purpose. Throughout the Bible, we see that when God closes a door, it is always for our protection, redirection, or preparation. What seems like a setback is often God’s way of guiding us to something far greater. When we pray for God’s guidance, wisdom and discernment and His will to be done, He hears our prayers and moves accordingly to assist His beloved children.

1. Closed Doors Are a Sign of God’s Guidance

Many people assume that if something is difficult or blocked, it must not be from God. But closed doors are just as much a part of God’s direction as open ones.

In Acts 16:6-10, the Apostle Paul and his companions wanted to preach in Asia and Bithynia, but the Holy Spirit prevented them. It wasn’t because preaching was wrong, but because God had a different plan—He was leading them to Macedonia instead.

Key lesson: When God blocks our path, it’s not rejection; it’s redirection. He may have a different mission, a better opportunity, or a more strategic purpose in mind.

2. Closed Doors Can Be Protection from Harm

Sometimes, we see only what we want, but God sees the full picture. He knows what lies ahead—both good and bad. A closed door might be protecting us from something we cannot see.

A clear example is Noah’s Ark (Genesis 7:16). Before the flood, Noah and his family entered the ark, and the Bible says:

“Then the Lord shut him in.” (Genesis 7:16)

God closed the door, sealing them inside. This wasn’t a punishment—it was protection from the coming storm. Similarly, when God closes a door in our lives, He may be protecting us from a relationship, opportunity, or decision that would bring destruction.

Key lesson: What feels like rejection may actually be divine protection. Trust that God sees what you cannot see.

3. Closed Doors Are an Invitation to Trust God’s Timing

One of the hardest aspects of closed doors is waiting. We often assume that if an opportunity is good, we should have it now. But God’s delays are not His denials.

Take Hannah, for example (1 Samuel 1). She longed for a child, but the Bible says:

“The Lord had closed her womb.” (1 Samuel 1:5-6)

At first, this seemed like an unfair closed door. But in time, Hannah conceived Samuel, one of Israel’s greatest prophets. God wasn’t denying her—He was waiting for the right moment to bless her with a son who would have a lasting impact on Israel’s history.

Key lesson: When God closes a door, He may simply be saying, “Not yet.” His delays are for our good, shaping us for what’s ahead.

4. Closed Doors Help Align Our Hearts with God’s Will

Sometimes, a closed door forces us to re-examine our desires. Are we pursuing something for God’s glory or for our own agenda?

Consider Jonah. God told him to go to Nineveh and preach repentance, but Jonah ran in the opposite direction (Jonah 1:1-3). God closed the door on his escape by sending a storm and a great fish to swallow him. Only after three days in the fish did Jonah finally obey.

God’s closed door (the storm and the fish) forced Jonah to align his heart with God’s purpose.

Key lesson: A closed door can be God’s way of changing our hearts and attitudes to match His plan.

5. When One Door Closes, Another Will Open

A closed door is not the end of the story. Often, when God closes one door, He is already preparing to open another—one that is even better than we imagined.

• David wanted to build the Temple, but God said no (1 Chronicles 17:4). Instead, God allowed Solomon, David’s son, to build it. David’s role was not to construct the temple but to prepare for its future success.

• The foolish virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 found the wedding door closed because they were unprepared. The opportunity had passed. This reminds us to be ready when God opens new doors.

A closed door means God has something else planned—but we must be ready when it comes.

Key lesson: Don’t dwell on the closed door—be ready for the new one that God is preparing.

How Should We Respond to Closed Doors?

1. Seek God in Prayer

Instead of getting frustrated, ask:

✅ “Lord, what are You teaching me through this?”

✅ “Are You protecting me from something?”

✅ “Are You redirecting me to something better?”

2. Trust in God’s Plan and Timing

• Isaiah 55:8-9 – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.

• Just because we don’t understand doesn’t mean God isn’t working for our good.

3. Keep Moving Forward in Faith

• Paul didn’t stop moving when he was blocked—he kept seeking God’s next step (Acts 16).

• When a door closes, don’t sit still. Keep walking in faith, obedience, and expectation.

Trusting the God of Closed Doors

A closed door is not rejection; it is redirection. It may be God’s way of:

✔ Guiding you to a better plan.

✔ Protecting you from unseen danger.

✔ Aligning your heart with His will.

✔ Preparing you for something greater.

If you’re facing a closed door today, don’t lose heart. Trust that God is working behind the scenes for your good. Instead of focusing on what didn’t happen, start looking for the new doors He is about to open.

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** Photo by Tim Mossholder at Pexels

The Magnificence of Christ Our Savior and Soon-Coming King

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The Magnificence of Christ Our Savior and Soon-Coming King

The story of Jesus Christ is the centerpiece of human history. His birth, life, death, resurrection, and promised return encapsulate the glory of God’s redemptive plan. Jesus, whose name means “The Lord saves,” is also called Emmanuel, meaning “God with us” (Matthew 1:21-23). His magnificence is proclaimed not only by heavenly hosts but also by humble shepherds, learned Magi, devout prophets, and even the unborn John the Baptist, pointing to His divine mission to save humanity from sin and reconcile us to God.

The Prophecies of the Messiah

Long before His earthly arrival, the coming of the Messiah was foretold by the prophets. These prophecies reveal the grandeur of His identity and mission:

  1. His Virgin Birth:
    Isaiah prophesied that the Messiah would be born of a virgin, signifying a divine and miraculous conception:
    “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Emmanuel” (Isaiah 7:14).
  2. His Identity and Mission:
    Isaiah described the Messiah as both a mighty ruler and a source of eternal peace:
    “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).
  3. His Eternal Kingship:
    The prophet Daniel foretold that the Messiah’s kingdom would never end:
    “His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed” (Daniel 7:14).
  4. The Place of His Birth:
    Micah foretold that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem:
    “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times” (Micah 5:2).

The Announcements of His Birth

The fulfillment of these prophecies was marked by divine announcements and extraordinary events.

To Mary

The angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, a humble young woman in Nazareth, and declared:
“Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end” (Luke 1:30-33).

Mary, in awe, humbly accepted God’s will, saying:
“I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled” (Luke 1:38).

To Joseph

Joseph, initially troubled upon learning of Mary’s pregnancy, was reassured by an angel in a dream:
“Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:20-21).

The Joy of Elizabeth and Unborn John

After receiving the angel Gabriel’s announcement, Mary went to visit her relative Elizabeth, who was miraculously pregnant with John the Baptist in her old age. As soon as Mary greeted Elizabeth, an extraordinary event occurred:

“When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice, she exclaimed: ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy’” (Luke 1:41-44).

This moment underscores Jesus’s divine nature even as an unborn child. John, filled with the Holy Spirit even in the womb, recognized and rejoiced in the presence of the Savior.

The Birth of the Savior

The birth of Jesus was marked by simplicity and splendor. Born in Bethlehem, He was laid in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn. This humble setting did not diminish His magnificence but instead highlighted His mission to bring salvation to all people, from the lowliest to the greatest.

The Celebration of His Birth

The Shepherds – The First Witnesses

On the night of Jesus’s birth, shepherds in the fields outside Bethlehem became the first to hear the good news. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, proclaiming:
“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger” (Luke 2:10-12).

Suddenly, a multitude of heavenly hosts praised God, saying:
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:14).

The shepherds, filled with wonder, hurried to Bethlehem. Finding Mary, Joseph, and the baby as the angel described, they became the first earthly witnesses to proclaim His arrival:
“When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed” (Luke 2:17-18).

The Magi – Honored Guests from the East

Some time later, wise men (Magi) from the East arrived in Jerusalem, guided by a miraculous star. They asked:
“Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him” (Matthew 2:2).

Herod, troubled by their inquiry, sought to use the Magi to locate Jesus for sinister purposes. But the star led the Magi to Bethlehem, where they found Jesus. They worshiped Him and offered gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh—symbols of His kingship, divinity, and sacrificial death (Matthew 2:11).

Warned in a dream not to return to Herod, the Magi departed another way, protecting the child from harm.

Simeon and Anna’s Testimonies

When Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the temple for consecration, Simeon, a devout man awaiting the Messiah, took the child in his arms and praised God:
“Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel” (Luke 2:29-32).

The prophetess Anna, who worshiped in the temple day and night, also recognized Jesus as the Redeemer. She gave thanks to God and spoke about Him to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem (Luke 2:36-38).

Jesus: The Savior and Soon-Coming King

The magnificence of Jesus extends far beyond His birth. He lived a sinless life, taught with divine authority, performed miracles, and ultimately gave His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). Through His death and resurrection, He conquered sin and death, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him:
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

As we celebrate His birth, we also look forward to His glorious return, when He will reign as King of Kings and Lord of Lords:
“Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him” (Revelation 1:7).

Conclusion

The birth of Jesus Christ is a cause for joy and celebration. His arrival fulfilled ancient prophecies, was heralded by angels, acknowledged by shepherds, worshiped by wise men, and even celebrated by John the Baptist in the womb. He is Emmanuel, God with us, who came to save His people from their sins and bring light to the world.

As we await His return, let us proclaim with the heavenly hosts:
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:14).

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**Photo by Krivec Ales at Pexels

Spiritual Pride: A Hidden Danger for Believers

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“Your heart became proud on account of your beauty, and you corrupted your wisdom because of your splendor.” ~Ezekiel 28:17. The sin that corrupted Lucifer was self-generated pride. He became so impressed with his own beauty, intelligence, power, and position that he began to desire for himself the honor and glory that belonged to God alone, and thus he was cast out of heaven. ~Ezekiel 28:18.

As Christians, we are called to walk in humility, following the example of Jesus Christ. However, as we pursue a life of faith, we may unknowingly face a dangerous pitfall along the way: spiritual pride. Spiritual pride can be difficult to recognize because it often masquerades as a sense of religious conviction or spiritual accomplishment. This form of pride can harm our relationship with God and others, drawing us away from the humility Christ taught. Understanding what spiritual pride is, how it manifests, and how to guard against it can help us live a faith that is truly centered on God’s grace.

What Is Spiritual Pride?

Spiritual pride occurs when a believer begins to take undue pride in their own righteousness, knowledge, or “spiritual achievements.” It can start subtly, creeping in as we grow in our faith, gain biblical knowledge, or feel closer to God. Rather than focusing on God’s grace, we may start to view ourselves as more “holy” or “enlightened” than those around us. While growth in faith is a wonderful thing, the danger of spiritual pride lies in shifting our focus from God to ourselves.

Biblical Warnings About Spiritual Pride

The Bible provides numerous examples of spiritual pride, often contrasting it with humility. Here are some key passages that warn us about the dangers of pride, especially when it enters our spiritual lives:

1. The Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14)

Jesus tells the parable of a Pharisee and a tax collector who went to the temple to pray. The Pharisee’s prayer was filled with self-righteousness, thanking God that he was “not like other men.” The tax collector, on the other hand, humbly asked for mercy. Jesus declared that the tax collector, not the Pharisee, went home justified before God. This parable reminds us that God values humility over pride, especially pride based on religious actions.

2. Pride Before a Fall (Proverbs 16:18)

“Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” When we allow pride to seep into our spiritual lives, it blinds us to our need for God’s grace, making us vulnerable to stumbling. This verse reminds us that humility is essential to walking in alignment with God’s will.

3. Paul’s Teaching on Grace (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Paul emphasizes that salvation is a gift from God, “not of works, lest any man should boast.” If we start to view our faith as something we’ve achieved, we risk boasting in ourselves rather than in the saving grace of Christ. Spiritual pride undermines the foundation of the Gospel, which is based on God’s grace, not our own merit.

Signs of Spiritual Pride in Our Lives

Spiritual pride can be hard to spot, especially since it often comes disguised as faithfulness or dedication. Here are a few signs that spiritual pride may be creeping into our lives:

1. Judgmental Attitude Toward Others

Spiritual pride often manifests as a judgmental attitude. We may find ourselves looking down on others who don’t seem as “mature” in their faith, questioning their sincerity or devotion. This judgment is rooted in pride, not in God’s love. Jesus reminded us not to judge others, as only He can see the heart (Matthew 7:1-5), however we are called to discern the spirit (1 John 4:1).

2. Desire for Recognition

Do we feel a need for others to see or acknowledge our spiritual efforts? Jesus warned against practicing our faith for the sake of appearance. He taught that when we give, pray, or fast, we should do so in secret, so that our reward is from God, not human praise (Matthew 6:1-6).

3. A Sense of “Arrival” in Our Faith

Spiritual pride can make us feel as though we’ve “arrived” at a place of deep understanding or holiness, diminishing our desire for further growth. This mindset blocks the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives, as it blinds us to our own weaknesses. The Christian life is a lifelong journey, and we should always approach it with a teachable spirit.

4. Isolation from Those “Less Mature”

When spiritual pride takes hold, we may avoid those we consider “less mature” in faith, seeing ourselves as above them. Yet Jesus spent time with sinners and outcasts, showing us that true spirituality is marked by compassion and connection, not separation.

Touching God’s Glory: A Warning Against Self-Centered Faith

In Christian teaching, God’s glory is central to everything we do. Isaiah 42:8 reminds us, “I am the LORD; that is my name; my glory I give to no other.” When we take credit for spiritual accomplishments or make faith about our own achievements, we are at risk of “touching” or taking credit for God’s glory. This often happens subtly as we grow in our spiritual lives, especially if we start to feel more “advanced” or “righteous” than others. This desire for recognition or approval, even in matters of faith, can lead us to take ownership of things only God has done.

Spiritual pride, when unchecked, tempts us to claim credit for the growth, insights, and transformations that are truly the work of the Holy Spirit in us. We may forget that any good we do, any understanding we have, and any growth we experience are ultimately God’s gifts to us, not our own achievements. Jesus taught in John 15:5, “Apart from me you can do nothing.” This truth reminds us that the power and goodness in our lives flow from God alone. To take credit for them not only misrepresents the truth but also diminishes our awe and gratitude toward God, who deserves all the glory.

Misplacing Credit: Recognizing the Holy Spirit’s Role and Discernment Against Deception

As we grow in faith, it’s essential to recognize that every good work, every insight, and every blessing in our lives is ultimately from God through the power of the Holy Spirit. Sometimes, however, spiritual pride or a lack of discernment can lead us to give credit for these works elsewhere—perhaps to a revered saint, man of God or even our own strength—rather than acknowledging God’s hand in our lives. While people may honor and seek intercession from saints, Scripture is clear that the power to transform lives, perform miracles, and guide us into truth belongs to the Holy Spirit alone and there is only one intercessor between God and men, Jesus Christ (John 14:26, Acts 1:8, 1 Timothy 2:5). Misplacing this credit, however well-intentioned, can obscure our reliance on God and His truth.

Moreover, the Bible warns us about the enemy’s tactics to deceive through counterfeit signs and miracles. Jesus cautioned in Matthew 24:24 that false prophets and false signs could lead people astray, even those in the faith. Satan’s deceptive works are meant to distract us from the truth, enticing people to give honor where it doesn’t belong. Understanding this reminds us to remain vigilant and discerning, always comparing any spiritual experience to the truth of God’s Word.

When spiritual pride enters, it can make us more vulnerable to these deceptions, as we may become focused on external displays of faith rather than genuine reliance on God. By maintaining humility and giving credit to the Holy Spirit alone, we guard our hearts from both misplaced honor and deception.

How Spiritual Pride Affects Our Relationship with God and Others

Spiritual pride can be extremely damaging, both to our relationship with God and with our fellow believers. Here are some ways it impacts our walk with Christ:

• Weakening Our Dependence on God

Spiritual pride makes us rely more on our own efforts than on God’s grace. When we focus on our accomplishments or knowledge, we lose sight of our continual need for God’s mercy and guidance.

• Creating Barriers in Community

Pride can create walls between us and other believers. The body of Christ is meant to be unified, with each member supporting and learning from one another. Spiritual pride disrupts this unity by fostering a spirit of judgment or competition.

• Preventing Personal Growth

Pride stops us from seeing our own shortcomings. When we’re too focused on what we think we know or have achieved, we close ourselves off to the refining work of the Holy Spirit. True growth requires humility and an openness to God’s correction.

How to Guard Against Spiritual Pride

Guarding against spiritual pride requires a commitment to humility, self-reflection, and a reliance on God’s grace. Here are some practical steps to help us stay on track:

1. Pray for a Humble Heart

Scripture encourages us to “clothe ourselves with humility” (1 Peter 5:5). We can pray that God would reveal any areas of pride in our hearts and give us a humble spirit. Regularly seeking God’s help in maintaining humility keeps us aware of our dependence on Him.

2. Examine Our Motives

It’s essential to check our motives, especially in our acts of faith. Are we seeking to glorify God or to receive approval from others? Taking time for honest self-reflection keeps our hearts aligned with God’s purposes.

3. Focus on Serving Others

Jesus taught us that the greatest among us should be a servant (Matthew 23:11). When we focus on quietly serving others rather than elevating ourselves, we are reminded of Christ’s humility and love. Acts of selfless service without looking for honour can help dismantle pride.

4. Remember Our Need for Grace

Meditating on God’s grace keeps us grounded. Paul wrote, “What do you have that you did not receive?” (1 Corinthians 4:7). Everything we have, including our faith, is a gift from God. By regularly reflecting on our dependence on His grace, we maintain a spirit of gratitude and humility, remembering that our spiritual journey is not one of personal achievement but one of God’s generosity and love.

A Prayer for Humility and Freedom from Spiritual Pride

Heavenly Father,

We come before You with humble hearts, acknowledging that without Your grace, we are nothing. Lord, we confess that pride sometimes creeps into our hearts, leading us to rely on ourselves rather than on You. Help us to see ourselves honestly and to root out any spiritual pride that blinds us to our dependence on You.

Holy Spirit, fill us with a deeper sense of Your presence and Your work in our lives. Remind us that every good thing, every insight, and every blessing comes from You alone. Guard our hearts against deception and any temptation to give glory to anyone or anything other than You. May we recognize the subtle ways the enemy seeks to distract us and remember that true power and goodness come from You alone.

Jesus, teach us to walk in the humility You modeled. Help us to focus not on our own achievements or knowledge but on serving others and bringing glory to Your name. May our lives be a reflection of Your love and grace, shining light not on ourselves but on You, our Lord and Savior.

In Your name we pray Jesus, Amen.

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** Photo by Pixabay at Pexels / Intro by Ron Rhodes from Reasoning from the Scripture ministries