The Danger of Pride

The Catholic Church teaches that pride is one of the seven capital vices (things that lead to sin). Indeed, some theologians might argue that pride is the most capital of vices, since those who fall victim to it deem their own will more important than God’s. Forgetting Whose will is most important will quite often lead to indifference, lukewarmness, envy, and hatred of God (CCC 2094, 2540).

Additionally, pride has serious consequences! The wisdom books of the Old Testament teach us why we should avoid such a grave evil. The Book of Sirach states: “The beginning of man’s pride is to depart from the Lord; his heart has forsaken his Maker. For the beginning of pride is sin, and the man who clings to it pours out abominations.” Thus, faithful Christians must work to combat pride, primarily through cultivation of the virtue of humility.

Like so many other people throughout human history, this author has struggled (and continues to struggle) to overcome pride, to rid his life of selfishness. It seems to be an ongoing battle. However, it is possible that this vice will be overcome someday. Prayer must be incorporated into our daily lives and we must receive the Sacraments, especially the Eucharist, frequently. When we do these things, grace will abound, and sinners will be transformed into saints.

Let us all pray together that sinners, especially those who struggle with pride, will return to the Lord, beg for mercy, and cultivate humility in their lives. Let us pray that an increase in humility will tranform our families, ministries, jobs, communities, and society.

God Bless.

CCC 2094,2540

¶2094 One can sin against God's love in various ways:

- indifference neglects or refuses to reflect on divine charity; it fails to consider its prevenient goodness and denies its power.

- ingratitude fails or refuses to acknowledge divine charity and to return him love for love.

- lukewarmness is hesitation or negligence in responding to divine love; it can imply refusal to give oneself over to the prompting of charity.

- acedia or spiritual sloth goes so far as to refuse the joy that comes from God and to be repelled by divine goodness.

- hatred of God comes from pride. It is contrary to love of God, whose goodness it denies, and whom it presumes to curse as the one who forbids sins and inflicts punishments.

¶2540 Envy represents a form of sadness and therefore a refusal of charity; the baptized person should struggle against it by exercising good will. Envy often comes from pride; the baptized person should train himself to live in humility:

Would you like to see God glorified by you? Then rejoice in your brother's progress and you will immediately give glory to God. Because his servant could conquer envy by rejoicing in the merits of others, God will be praised.

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