Title: Pride and Gluttony: The Subtle Traps:

Feeling Full of Yourself? Time to Cut Back on That Spiritual Junk Food

Good morning, everyone! Today, we’re discussing two often-overlooked traps that can creep into our lives: pride and gluttony. These two may seem like separate issues, but they are deeply connected at their roots—they both grow from an unchecked focus on self rather than God

Let’s begin by looking at Proverbs 16:18: “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” This verse captures the essence of pride and its consequences. Pride isn’t just a flaw; it’s turning our gaze away from God’s sovereignty and a declaration that we don’t need Him. And if we allow pride to take hold, we’ll find ourselves on a path that leads to a fall.

The Story of the Boy Who Cried Wolf

Think about the story of the boy who cried wolf. He was filled with pride, thinking he could manipulate those around him. His need to feel in control led him to call for help when he didn’t need it, believing he could summon others whenever it suited him. But when real danger came, his previous prideful actions cost him dearly. No one believed him, and he faced the wolf alone.

Like the boy, pride can make us believe we’re invincible—above consequences. We might think we don’t need the help of others or God. But when real challenges hit, that illusion shatters. Pride isolates us and closes our eyes to our need for God’s wisdom and guidance.

The Sin of Gluttony

Now, let’s consider gluttony, another vice often misunderstood. When we think of gluttony, we tend to limit it to overeating. But gluttony is much broader; it’s the pursuit of excess—whether that’s food, wealth, comfort, or status. Gluttony is the craving for “more” without regard for need, often without thought for the people around us or God’s intended balance in our lives.

Gluttony’s root is similar to pride. It’s about trying to fill a void with something other than God. When we chase after material excess, we essentially say, “I need more than what God provides.” Like pride, it’s a way of leaning on ourselves instead of relying on God’s provision.

Pride and Gluttony Together

These two vices work hand-in-hand. Pride tells us we deserve more and are entitled to indulge in whatever brings us comfort, power, or pleasure. Gluttony fulfills that desire, feeding the prideful belief that we’re at the center of it all.

These sins dull our sensitivity to God’s presence in our lives. They fill us up so completely with self that there’s no room for God. We end up craving things that can never truly satisfy us.

The Path Back to Humility and Self-Control

But here’s the good news: there’s a way back from the grip of pride and gluttony, and that path is humility and self-control. James 4:10 reminds us, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” When we humble ourselves, we acknowledge our dependence on God and open ourselves to His grace. Humility helps us see the world through God’s eyes, not our narrow vision. And with that perspective, we can better recognize when enough is enough and resist the pull of excess.

Self-control is our safeguard against gluttony. It’s the discipline to say, “What I have is enough.” Practicing restraint creates room for gratitude, allowing us to appreciate God’s blessings without constantly seeking more.

Closing Prayer

Let us close in prayer. Heavenly Father, thank You for Your wisdom and guidance. Please help us to recognize the places in our lives where pride and gluttony may have taken root. Teach us humility and self-control so we may turn our hearts entirely to You. May we seek Your approval above all else and find satisfaction in Your presence. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Remember, pride and gluttony aren’t just ancient sins; they’re temptations we face differently. By seeking humility and self-control, we can guard our hearts and find joy in God’s provision and love.

Amen!