MAY 24 – Stumbling Blocks & Stepping Stones
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 16:18; Psalms 58; Galatians 5
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“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” — Proverbs 16:18
“The wicked are estranged from the womb; they go astray from birth, speaking lies.” — Psalm 58:3
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” — Galatians 5:22-23
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Have you ever had a moment when you felt unstoppable, maybe because of your talents or accomplishments? It’s easy to let that feeling of confidence turn into pride. Proverbs 16:18 warns us about the danger of pride, which can cause us to stumble. When we think we’re above others or better than we truly are, we can set ourselves up for a fall.
In Psalm 58, we’re reminded that sin is a part of human nature, starting from birth. It’s not just about big acts of rebellion—it’s also in the smaller, subtle ways we hurt others or make decisions apart from God. But here’s the good news: we don’t have to stay stuck in sin.
Galatians 5:22-23 tells us about the fruit of the Spirit—qualities like love, peace, and kindness—that can transform our hearts. When we allow the Holy Spirit to guide us, He helps us rise above the stumbles of pride and selfishness.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. Pride Check: Are there areas in your life where pride might be influencing your thoughts or actions? How can you humble yourself and seek God’s guidance?
2. True Transformation: The fruit of the Spirit is a result of God’s work in us. Which of these traits do you want to grow more in your life? How can you invite the Holy Spirit to help you with that?
3. Lies We Believe: Psalm 58 talks about how lying is a natural part of our human nature. Are there lies or half-truths you’ve believed about yourself or others that need to be replaced with God’s truth?
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BOTTOM LINE
Pride can cause us to stumble, but God offers us a better way through the Holy Spirit, who helps us grow in love, joy, and self-control.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that pride leads to destruction, but with Your help, I can live differently. I ask You to help me grow the fruit of Your Spirit in my life, so that I can love others and honor You in everything I do. Keep me humble and open to Your guidance, and help me replace any lies with Your truth. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.