Devotional

The Fall of the Proud

Michael Beck

“But when his heart was lifted up, and his mind hardened in pride, he was deposed from his kingly throne, and they took his glory from him: And he was driven from the sons of men; and his heart was made like the beasts” (Daniel 5:20,21)

It is better to still be “on the fence” about something than to come down on the wrong side of it. Better to know nothing than believe what is false. When our mind hardens in pride, when we will no longer receive correction, when we are set in a wicked way, and the “pedal is to the metal,” we are about to be “driven” off a cliff.

Through the counsel of Daniel, God gave king Nebuchadnezzar one last chance not to go off the deep end. “Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by shewing mercy to the poor; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquillity.” (Daniel 4:27) Instead of humbling himself, the king continued to exalt himself. He let Daniel’s counsel go in one ear and out the other.

Beware of a “made up mind” when your heart is lifted up and you are not seeking God. Those who act as stubborn mules end up with a “beast’s heart” and many sorrows.

“I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee. Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the LORD, mercy shall compass him about.” (Psalm 32:8-10)


Michael Beck is a pastor in the Dallas, TX area and the main author on Signpost. Receive a daily devotional he publishes every morning via email.