The Pride of Life: Achievements from the Evil One, Not of God

Introduction

The Bible warns us about the dangers of pride, particularly what Scripture calls "the pride of life" (1 John 2:16). This form of pride is rooted in self-exaltation, the pursuit of personal glory, and the desire to elevate oneself above God’s will. Many people today chase after worldly achievements—wealth, fame, power, and recognition—believing these things define success. However, Scripture makes it clear that not all accomplishments come from God. Some are inspired by the evil one, designed to draw us away from humility, dependence on God, and eternal purposes.

In this sermon, we will examine:

The Nature of the Pride of Life


Worldly Achievements vs. Godly Success


Biblical Examples of Pride Leading to Destruction


How to Guard Against the Deception of Pride


Pursuing Godly Success Over Worldly Gain
1. The Nature of the Pride of Life

"For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world." (1 John 2:16)

The "pride of life" refers to an arrogant self-reliance, a boastful attitude that seeks personal glory rather than God’s glory. It manifests in:

Self-sufficiency – Believing we don’t need God.


Boasting in accomplishments – Taking credit for success rather than giving glory to God.


Seeking human approval over God’s approval – Living for the applause of people rather than the approval of Heaven.

Satan himself fell because of pride (Isaiah 14:12-14). He desired to exalt himself above God, and he tempts humanity with the same sin. Many great achievements in history—whether in business, politics, or even religion—have been tainted by this pride, leading to corruption, downfall, and spiritual ruin.
2. Worldly Achievements vs. Godly Success

Not all success is godly. Many people build empires, accumulate wealth, and gain fame, yet their hearts are far from God. Jesus warned:

"For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?" (Matthew 16:26)
Signs of Worldly Achievements (From the Evil One):

Motivated by selfish ambition (James 3:16)


Leads to arrogance rather than humility


Temporary and fading (Matthew 6:19-20)


Often gained through compromise or sin


Seeks personal glory rather than God’s glory
Signs of Godly Success (From the Lord):

Rooted in humility and dependence on God (James 4:10)


Bears eternal fruit (John 15:16)


Seeks to glorify God, not self (1 Corinthians 10:31)


Built on integrity and righteousness (Proverbs 10:9)


Leads to blessing others, not just self-promotion

Many of the world’s most "successful" people end up empty, addicted, or broken because their achievements did not satisfy their souls. Only what is done for Christ will last.
3. Biblical Examples of Pride Leading to Destruction
A. King Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:28-37)

Nebuchadnezzar boasted, "Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for a royal dwelling by my mighty power and for the honor of my majesty?" (v. 30). Immediately, God humbled him, driving him to live like a beast until he acknowledged that "the Most High rules in the kingdom of men" (v. 32).
B. Herod Agrippa (Acts 12:21-23)

When the people shouted, "The voice of a god and not of a man!" Herod accepted their worship instead of giving glory to God. Immediately, an angel struck him down, and he was eaten by worms.
C. The Rich Fool (Luke 12:16-21)

This man stored up wealth for himself, saying, "Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry." But God said, "Fool! This night your soul will be required of you."

These examples show that prideful achievements, when not surrendered to God, lead to destruction.
4. How to Guard Against the Deception of Pride

Pride is deceptive (Obadiah 1:3). It makes us think we are in control when, in reality, we are being led astray. Here’s how to guard against it:
A. Cultivate Humility

"God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble." (James 4:6)

Acknowledge that every good gift comes from God (James 1:17).


Regularly examine your heart for prideful motives.
B. Give God the Glory

Like David, declare, "Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but to Your name give glory." (Psalm 115:1)


When praised, redirect honor to God.
C. Seek Eternal Rewards Over Temporary Gains

Invest in God’s Kingdom, not just earthly treasures (Matthew 6:19-21).


Serve others rather than seeking to be served (Mark 10:45).
D. Stay Accountable

Surround yourself with godly counsel (Proverbs 11:14).


Allow others to speak truth into your life.
5. Pursuing Godly Success Over Worldly Gain

True success is measured by obedience to God, not by worldly standards. Consider Jesus’ words:

"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." (Matthew 6:33)
Keys to Godly Success:

Faithfulness over fame – Be faithful in small things (Luke 16:10).


Character over credentials – God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).


Service over status – The greatest in God’s Kingdom is the servant of all (Mark 9:35).


Eternal perspective – Live for what lasts forever.
Conclusion: Choose Whom You Will Serve

The pride of life is a snare. It promises greatness but delivers emptiness. Achievements that come from selfish ambition, greed, or arrogance are not from God but from the evil one. True success comes when we surrender our ambitions to Christ and live for His glory.

"Do not love the world or the things in the world... The world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever." (1 John 2:15, 17)

Will you pursue temporary achievements that fade, or will you invest in what lasts for eternity? The choice is yours.

Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, deliver us from the pride of life. Help us to walk in humility, to seek Your glory above our own, and to build our lives on what pleases You. May our achievements bring honor to Your name and advance Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.