MAY 18 – Pride, Grace, and a Changed Heart
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 16:5–6; 2 Corinthians 6–7
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“Everyone who is arrogant in heart is an abomination to the Lord; be assured, he will not go unpunished. By steadfast love and faithfulness iniquity is atoned for, and by the fear of the Lord one turns away from evil.” — Proverbs 16:5–6
“We put no obstacle in anyone’s way, so that no fault may be found with our ministry… as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, yet possessing everything.” — 2 Corinthians 6:3, 10
“For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death.” — 2 Corinthians 7:10
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Sometimes we wear a mask—trying to seem like we’ve got it all together, that we’re strong, confident, maybe even a little better than others. But Proverbs 16:5 reminds us that pride isn’t something God overlooks. It’s not just a bad attitude—it’s a heart condition that separates us from Him. The good news? God doesn’t leave us stuck there.
Proverbs 16:6 shows us the way back: love, faithfulness, and reverent respect for God. In 2 Corinthians 6–7, Paul shares how real change happens—not through shame, but through godly sorrow that leads to repentance. God isn’t after fake perfection. He’s after a real, humble, surrendered heart that’s willing to be changed.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. Pride vs. Humility:
What are some ways pride can quietly sneak into your thoughts or actions? How can choosing humility open the door for God’s grace?
2. Godly Grief = Real Change:
Have you ever felt genuinely sorry for something because you knew it hurt your relationship with God—not just because you got caught? That’s godly sorrow. It leads to freedom and transformation.
3. What Are You Clinging To?
Paul said he had “nothing, yet possessed everything” (2 Corinthians 6:10). What things are you holding tightly to that may be getting in the way of truly depending on God?
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BOTTOM LINE
God isn’t looking for perfect people—He’s looking for hearts willing to be honest, humbled, and transformed by His love. Real strength comes when we let go of pride and let God reshape us.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, I confess that sometimes pride creeps into my heart. I try to handle things on my own or pretend I’m fine when I’m not. Help me to turn to You with a humble heart, to be real about where I’ve messed up, and to trust Your love to guide me. Thank You for grace that changes me from the inside out. Make me more like You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.