BIBLE VERSES ABOUT PRIDE (KJV)

Pride is a powerful emotion. It can either inspire confidence and self-respect—or lead to downfall and destruction. Throughout Scripture, the Bible consistently warns about the dangers of pride while encouraging humility as a godly virtue. Whether you're studying for personal growth, preparing a sermon, or simply seeking biblical wisdom, understanding what the Word of God says about pride is essential.

In this post, we’ll explore key Bible verses about pride in the King James Version (KJV), uncover what Scripture teaches about its consequences, and learn how to cultivate humility in our daily lives.

What Does the Bible Say About Pride?

The Bible speaks clearly and repeatedly about pride. In most cases, pride is portrayed as a negative trait that separates people from God. It often leads to arrogance, self-dependence, and rebellion against the Lord.

Here’s a foundational truth Scripture reveals:

Proverbs 16:18 (KJV)
"Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall."

This well-known verse captures the essence of biblical teaching on pride: unchecked pride inevitably leads to downfall.

Top Bible Verses About Pride (KJV)

Below are some of the most powerful KJV Scriptures addressing pride and humility.

1. God’s View on Pride

Proverbs 8:13 (KJV)
"The fear of the Lord is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate."

This verse is strong and direct—God hates pride. It’s listed alongside evil behavior, showing how seriously the Lord views arrogance.

James 4:6 (KJV)
"God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble."

Imagine that: God actively resists the proud. On the other hand, He generously gives grace to the humble.

2. The Consequences of Pride

One of the consistent themes in Scripture is that pride brings consequences.

• Pride leads to destruction.
• Pride brings dishonor.
• Pride causes separation from God.

Proverbs 11:2 (KJV)
"When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom."

Proverbs 29:23 (KJV)
"A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit."

These verses paint a clear picture: pride lowers a person, while humility lifts them.

A powerful biblical example is King Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 4. His pride caused God to humble him dramatically, showing that no one is beyond accountability.

3. Pride as a Sin of the Heart

Pride isn’t just outward arrogance—it begins in the heart.

Mark 7:21–22 (KJV)
"For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts… pride… All these evil things come from within, and defile the man."

Jesus makes it clear that pride is a heart issue. It reflects inner spiritual condition rather than external success.

Similarly, the downfall of Satan is often associated with pride:

Proverbs 16:5 (KJV)
"Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished."

The Blessing of Humility

While the Bible strongly warns against pride, it beautifully highlights the blessings of humility.

Benefits of Humility Include:

• Receiving God’s grace
• Gaining wisdom
• Being honored by God
• Experiencing spiritual growth

Micah 6:8 (KJV)
"He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?"

1 Peter 5:6 (KJV)
"Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time."

Notice the promise: God Himself will exalt the humble—at the right time.

How to Overcome Pride According to the Bible

Recognizing pride is the first step toward overcoming it. Here are practical, biblical ways to guard your heart:

✅ 1. Acknowledge Your Dependence on God

Remember that every talent, blessing, and success comes from Him.

1 Corinthians 4:7 (KJV)
"For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive?"

✅ 2. Practice Gratitude

Gratitude shifts focus from self-glory to God’s provision.

✅ 3. Serve Others

Serving keeps the heart humble and aligned with Christ’s example.

✅ 4. Follow Jesus’ Example

Jesus modeled ultimate humility.

Philippians 2:8 (KJV)
"And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross."

If the Son of God chose humility, how much more should we?

Pride vs. Righteous Confidence

It’s important to note that not all forms of pride are sinful. There is a difference between sinful pride and healthy confidence in Christ.

• Sinful pride says, “I did this on my own.”
• Godly confidence says, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13 KJV)

The difference lies in where the glory goes.

Final Thoughts: Choose Humility Over Pride

The Bible’s message about pride is consistent and clear: pride leads to destruction, but humility leads to honor and grace. God resists the proud—but He draws near to the humble.

As you reflect on these Bible verses about pride (KJV), ask yourself:

• Is there any pride hidden in my heart?
• Am I seeking my own glory or God’s?
• How can I walk more humbly with the Lord today?

True greatness in God’s Kingdom comes not through self-exaltation, but through surrender. When we choose humility, we position ourselves to receive His grace, guidance, and blessing.

Let’s strive to walk humbly—because in God’s economy, humility always wins.

If you found this post helpful, consider sharing it with someone who may need encouragement or biblical clarity on the subject of pride.