Romans 12:16
Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.
Devotional
One of the saddest realities of life is that when people rise to the top, they often begin to look down on those beneath them. It’s as if they suddenly forget that they were once in that very position. Promotions, success, wealth, or status can change how people see themselves and how they treat others. But Romans 12:16 reminds us that true greatness isn’t about elevating ourselves, it’s about staying humble and walking in unity with others.
Many believe that the first sin was Adam and Eve’s disobedience in the Garden of Eden, but the very first sin was pride. Before humanity fell, Lucifer, once a glorious angel, allowed pride to consume him. He desired to exalt himself above God, to take the throne for himself (Isaiah 14:12-17). That act of rebellion led to his downfall and serves as a warning to us today.
There’s a reason pride is considered the first of the seven deadly sins, it is the most dangerous. Pride blinds us, isolates us, and prevents us from growing. It makes us believe we are better than others or that we have nothing to learn. When we become wise in our own eyes, we block the wisdom that comes from God and from the people He places in our lives.
Romans 12:16 encurages us to embrace humility and to associate with those whom the world may overlook. Jesus Himself set the perfect example. He, the Son of God, chose to walk among the poor, the broken, and the rejected. He dined with tax collectors, healed the sick, and washed the feet of His disciples. If Jesus, the King of Kings, humbled Himself in this way, how much more should we?
When we let go of pride and connect with people regardless of their status or background, we open ourselves up to meaningful relationships and new perspectives. We reflect the love of Christ by valuing people for who they are, not for what they have and also, we guard ourselves against the destruction that pride brings.
However, when we become wise in our own eyes, we limit our growth and understanding. Pride leads to division, but humility leads to harmony. When we stop measuring people’s worth by worldly standards and start seeing them as God sees them, we create an environment of unity, love, and respect.
Pride has led to the downfall of many, including Lucifer, once a glorious angel. Let Paul’s words be a cornerstone in your life, guiding you toward humility and harmony with others.
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Self reflection questions to examine your heart
- Do you treat people differently based on their status, wealth, or background?
- Are you open to learning from others, even those you might not expect to learn from?
- Have you ever let pride get in the way of your relationships or personal growth?
- Do you struggle with feeling superior to others in certain areas of your life?
- How can you practice humility in your daily interactions?
Prayer
Almighty Lord,
Thank You for the wisdom in Your Word. I ask that You examine my heart and reveal any pride that may be hiding within me. Help me to love and respect others, no matter their status or background. Teach me not to measure a person’s worth by worldly standards but to see them through Your eyes. Fill me with humility, Lord, and guide me to walk in harmony with others. Thank You for Your grace and patience as I grow.
Amen.
