← Back
0

Is "pride" ever a good thing?

For example, if you say, “I’m so proud of my child’s success?”

Isaiah 2:12

ESV - 12 For the Lord of hosts has a day against all that is proud and lofty, against all that is lifted up - and it shall be brought low.

Clarify Share Report Asked January 06 2022 Self 015 Peggy Johnson Supporter

Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.

3
Mini Tim Maas Supporter Retired Quality Assurance Specialist with the U.S. Army
In his excellent book Mere Christianity (which is fully viewable online), C. S. Lewis addressed this question in the chapter that he devoted to the subject of pride. He wrote:

"We say in English that a man is 'proud' of his son, or his father, or his school, or regiment, and it may be asked whether 'pride' in this sense is a sin. I think it depends on what, exactly, we mean by 'proud of.' Very often, in such sentences, the phrase 'is proud of' means 'has a warm-hearted admiration for.' Such an admiration is, of course, very far from being a sin. 

"But it might, perhaps, mean that the person in question gives himself airs on the ground of his distinguished father, or because he belongs to a famous regiment. This would, clearly, be a fault; but even then, it would be better than being proud simply of himself. To love and admire anything outside yourself is to take one step away from utter spiritual ruin; though we shall not be well so long as we love and admire anything more than we love and admire God."

January 06 2022 0 responses Vote Up Share Report


Add your Answer

All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.

What makes a good answer? ▼

A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.

  1. Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
  2. Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
  3. Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
  4. Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
  5. For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible
Header
  1. 4000 characters remaining