Foolish Pride
Psalm 75 (KJV)
1 Unto thee, O God, do we give thanks, unto thee do we give thanks: for that thy name is near thy wondrous works declare.
2 When I shall receive the congregation I will judge uprightly.
3 The earth and all the inhabitants thereof are dissolved: I bear up the pillars of it. Selah.
4 I said unto the fools, Deal not foolishly: and to the wicked, Lift not up the horn:
5 Lift not up your horn on high: speak not with a stiff neck.
6 For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south.
7 But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another.
8 For in the hand of the Lord there is a cup, and the wine is red; it is full of mixture; and he poureth out of the same: but the dregs thereof, all the wicked of the earth shall wring them out, and drink them.
9 But I will declare for ever; I will sing praises to the God of Jacob.
10 All the horns of the wicked also will I cut off; but the horns of the righteous shall be exalted.
Foolish Pride
The sin of pride, at its core, is an intentional placing one’s own will above the will of God. Psalm 75 is a serious and fervent warning to those foolish men who dare to rebel against God. This psalm begins with joyful shouts of thanks to God. We are thankful that God is near. Now God speaks and says when He receives the congregation, He will judge uprightly. Therefore, we can be thankful that in the presence of God we need not be afraid that He will not judge us righteously. He warns the fools to deal not foolishly. God reproofs evil, giving them the opportunity to change their ways. He does the same for the wicked, who proudly raise their horn, like a bull preparing for a violent charge. “Lift not up your horn on high. Speak not with a stiff neck” (75:5). He admonishes these stubborn and arrogant ones that it is only God who promotes and elevates one’s status. “For in the hand of the Lord is a cup” (75:8). This passage reminds me of Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane begging God if it be possible, to take this cup from him. But each man must drink from the mixture of wine that God provides to him. Ultimately, like Jesus, we should accept the cup and drink of it, saying, not my will but thy will be done. The psalmist sings but I will declare forever. I will sing praises to the God of Jacob. God will cut off all the horns of the wicked but the horns of the righteous shall be exalted. Though we all have egos, the wicked use them for their own selfish desires, while the righteous humbly bow down and lower their egos to the will of God.
The word narcissist seems to be used commonly in today’s world. Many seem to act with pride and arrogance, thinking more highly of themselves than having concern for others. Psalm 75 reminds me that we all must guard against the sin of the pride of life. Satan can subtly tempt us with all the material things of this world which serve to elevate yourself pride. Remember, he tempted Jesus in just this way when he told Him if you are the Son of God just fall and the angels will catch you (Matthew 4:6). Jesus replied thou shall not tempt the Lord thy God (Matthew 4:7). So Jesus did not have to prove His status to anyone through an outward display of power. Neither do we as Christians. The world is looking for signs of wealth and power. These so-called signs can include status symbols such as the type of car you drive, the cost of your home, the type of your profession or the level of your educational attainment. Lord, help me to stay humble, knowing that all my righteousness is as filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6). All the glory and honor belongs to Jesus who gave His life for us at Calvary. There is no other name greater (Acts 4:12).
I would love to hear what this Psalm brings to mind for you! Write back to me in Facebook comment or blog reply.
Disclaimer: The intention of this project is not to teach, but rather to share. Please use due diligence in studying the word of God, and seek guidance from your local religious leaders for any questions or concerns.
Debra Hill
Debra Hill is an independent inspirational singer, author, songwriter, and writer. As a blind performer, she adds a personal story of God’s faithfulness. Her life exemplifies that Christ’s power will work to lift all regardless of circumstances.
Special Thanks to Elizabeth Baber and Dr. Shakira for all that you do to make it happen.
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