Key Text: “Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but
associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.” – Romans 12:16 (NKJV)
Pride divides. It creates barriers in families, communities, and the church. When people place
their own opinions, status, or desires above others, unity is broken. Pride fosters prejudice, leading
to judgment, exclusion, and an unwillingness to listen or reconcile. Yet, God calls His people to
humility, love, and unity.
How Pride Destroys Unity
One of the most outstanding examples of pride dividing people is found in the story of the Tower
of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9). The people united, but their unity was built on prideful ambition
rather than submission to God. As a result, God confused their language and scattered them
across the earth. Their story shows that prideful unity is ultimately destructive, but humility leads
to true harmony.
The Pharisees in Jesus' time allowed their pride to create divisions. They looked down on others,
priding themselves on their religious status while condemning those they considered sinners (Luke
18:9-14). Their prejudice prevented them from recognizing the Messiah. Similarly, many
relationships and even churches today suffer because of pride—people refuse to forgive, listen, or
humble themselves for the sake of unity.
The Power of Humility in Restoring Unity
Jesus demonstrated humility by breaking down barriers. He spoke to the Samaritan woman at the
well (John 4:7-26), ate with tax collectors and sinners (Luke 5:30-32), and even washed His
disciples’ feet (John 13:12-15). He taught that greatness in God’s kingdom comes not from status
or self-exaltation but from a heart willing to serve and love others.
Paul urges believers to “walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness
and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love.” (Ephesians 4:1-2, NKJV).
Unity is only possible when we let go of pride and embrace humility.
Ellen G. White writes, “It is the love of self that destroys our peace. While self is all alive, we stand
ready continually to guard it from mortification and insult; but when we are dead, and our life is
hid with Christ in God, we shall not take neglects or slights to heart.” (Thoughts from the Mount
of Blessing, p. 16). When we humble ourselves, we become instruments of God’s peace.
Application
Is there a relationship in your life affected by pride? Do you struggle with prejudice or division?
God calls us to let go of pride and seek unity through humility.
Practical Steps:
1. Examine your heart – Ask God to reveal areas where pride has created division.

2. Choose love over pride – Be willing to listen, forgive, and reconcile.
3. Serve others selflessly – Unity grows when we prioritize others' needs above our own.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Forgive me for the times I have let pride create division in my relationships.
Teach me to walk in humility, to love without prejudice, and to seek unity in my family, church,
and community. May I reflect Your character in my words and actions. In Jesus’ name, Amen.