Pride & Rebellion: The Root of Our Towers
Scripture:
Genesis 11:4 – “Come, let us build ourselves a city and a tower with its top in the sky. Let us make a name for ourselves.”
Proverbs 16:18 – “Pride comes before destruction, and an arrogant spirit before a fall.”
Devotional:
The story of the Tower of Babel isn’t just ancient history—it’s a timeless warning about pride and rebellion. At first glance, building a tower might seem harmless, even admirable. But when we look closer, we see their heart: “Let us make a name for ourselves.”
Their goal wasn’t about honoring God or caring for others—it was purely about personal glory and self-preservation. They desired a name, a legacy, and a way to reach heaven on their own terms.
Pride is subtle yet powerful. It sneaks into our hearts when we start thinking that our plans, desires, and achievements matter more than God’s instructions. It whispers that we can do life our way without consequence. Pride shifts our dependence from God to ourselves, making us believe the lie that we don’t need Him.
This rebellion at Babel didn’t start there. It traces back to Noah’s son, Ham, whose disrespectful (or possibly worse) actions set a rebellious lineage that included Nimrod—the architect behind Babel’s rebellion. Nimrod and his people wanted independence from God’s commands; instead of scattering and filling the earth, they defiantly built their tower, thinking they knew better.
We, too, often build our own "towers" of pride and self-glory. Whether it's the pursuit of success, validation from others, or even religious activity driven by appearances, these towers ultimately lead to confusion, brokenness, and separation from God.
Today, God is gently but firmly asking: What tower are you building? Is it for your glory or Mine?
Questions for Reflection:
- In what areas of your life do you sense pride creeping in?
- Are there towers you're currently building—plans or pursuits—that are more about your own glory than God’s purpose?
Prayer:
Lord, forgive me for the prideful towers I've constructed in my heart. Help me recognize when I’m chasing my glory instead of Yours. Tear down what needs to fall, and build in me a spirit of humility, dependence, and obedience. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Daily Application:
Identify one area where pride has influenced your decisions. Confess this specifically to God, and make a plan today to shift from pursuing your own glory to intentionally glorifying Him in that area.