Pride is the pillar of sin. The fact that the letter i is the center of the words pride and sin is a good reminder of this. Think about it; why do you not want to speak up for someone who is being harshly teased or bullied? It is likely that you are afraid of what the bully or others will think of you or do to you. That feeling is based in pride; you are being more concerned with yourself than others, which in essence is saying you're more important than they are. (We should be seeking to be channels of God’s love and be thinking, Who cares?! What matters is what God thinks!) Or why do you not let go of those worries and anxious thoughts rolling around in your head? I know for me, it’s because I want to know what’s gonna happen, that I’m going to be okay (in reference to what I’m worrying about). I want control. I don’t want God “to be able” to let hardships into my life. I have to laugh at myself…if I give my worries and the things of my life (e.g. - house, health, family, liberty/freedom, safety) to God or not, that doesn’t keep my future cozy and safe. I have no control, and really, I’m glad of it. Even if hardships/trials come, even if everything is stripped from me, God is still good. He is Holy, He is faithful forever, He is strength. He passionately loves us! So there really is no reason to fear… Anyway, my original point is that worry is another example of pride-based sin. It is usually selfish, which again is putting yourself above others, which is pride.
Since pride is so foundational to our sin, I believe this is one of the reasons God calls us to be humble. When we are humble, it completely demolishes pride, and thus, sin crumbles. It gives God room to work in a pliable heart.
