Pride is one of the most subtle and destructive forces addressed in Scripture. It often disguises itself as confidence, self-reliance, or personal achievement, yet beneath the surface, it exalts self above God. The Bible verses about arrogance and pride consistently warn that arrogance separates us from divine wisdom and invites spiritual downfall. From the earliest pages of Scripture, we see how pride distorts judgment, hardens the heart, and leads individuals and nations away from God’s will. Understanding what God says about arrogance is not merely a moral exercise; it is essential for spiritual growth and humility before Him.
Throughout biblical history, pride is shown as the root of rebellion. It was pride that caused Lucifer’s fall, pride that hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and pride that repeatedly led Israel into disobedience. Conversely, humility is consistently portrayed as the posture that attracts God’s favor. The Lord resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. This divine principle remains unchanging: when we elevate ourselves, we distance ourselves from God; when we humble ourselves, we draw nearer to Him.
These 35 powerful Bible verses about arrogance and pride reveal God’s perspective on the condition of the human heart. Each passage sheds light on the dangers of self-centeredness and the beauty of humility. As you reflect on these Scriptures, allow them to examine your heart. May they lead you toward repentance where pride has taken root and toward deeper surrender to God, who alone deserves all glory and honor.
35 Most Powerful Bible Verses About Arrogance And Pride
1. Proverbs 16:18
“Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.”
This well-known proverb delivers a sobering and timeless warning about the inevitable consequences of arrogance. Pride creates a dangerous illusion of invincibility, convincing a person that they are beyond correction or accountability. When the heart becomes haughty, it resists wise counsel and dismisses warnings that could prevent disaster. This verse teaches that destruction is rarely sudden or accidental; it is often the natural outcome of unchecked self-exaltation. God allows pride to unravel so that humility may be learned through experience. A guarded, humble heart protects us from avoidable downfall.
2. James 4:6
“God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.”
This verse reveals a profound spiritual principle that should cause every believer to pause and reflect. To say that God “resists” the proud means He actively stands against arrogance. Pride positions a person in opposition to divine grace, cutting them off from the very help they desperately need. However, humility attracts God’s favor, mercy, and empowerment. Grace flows freely to those who acknowledge their dependence on Him. Arrogance isolates and weakens, but humility strengthens and restores. Choosing humility is choosing alignment with God’s heart and receiving His sustaining grace.
3. Proverbs 11:2
“When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.”
This proverb highlights the contrast between pride’s promise and its outcome. Pride often appears impressive at first, projecting confidence and superiority. Yet beneath that appearance lies vulnerability to disgrace. Arrogance blinds individuals to their limitations and leads them into situations where their weaknesses are exposed. Shame follows because pride elevates the self beyond reality. In contrast, humility fosters wisdom. The lowly remain teachable, open to correction, and grounded in truth. Wisdom grows where self-exaltation fades. This verse reminds us that lasting honor flows from humility, not self-promotion.
4. Obadiah 1:3
“The pride of thine heart hath deceived thee.”
In this direct rebuke to Edom, God exposes the deceptive nature of pride. Arrogance convinces people that they are secure, superior, and untouchable. It creates a false sense of stability rooted in position, wealth, or power. However, pride distorts perception and blinds the heart to vulnerability. The most dangerous aspect of arrogance is self-deception—believing one’s own inflated view of strength. This verse reminds us that pride does not simply mislead others; it deceives the one who harbors it. Only humility restores clarity and aligns perception with truth.
5. Proverbs 8:13
“Pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way… do I hate.”
Here, wisdom personified declares God’s strong opposition to pride and arrogance. The language is intense because pride directly contradicts God’s holy nature. Arrogance elevates the self, while true wisdom begins with reverence for the Lord. Pride leads to corruption, injustice, and moral compromise, which is why it is listed alongside evil conduct. This verse makes it clear that pride is not harmless personality; it is a spiritual threat. To walk in wisdom requires rejecting self-exaltation and embracing humility. Genuine reverence for God leaves no room for arrogance.
6. Isaiah 2:12
“For the day of the Lord of hosts shall be upon every one that is proud and lofty, and upon every one that is lifted up; and he shall be brought low.”
This prophetic warning declares that pride will not go unnoticed or unaddressed by God. The “day of the Lord” represents a time of divine reckoning when human arrogance is confronted. Those who exalt themselves and elevate their status above others will ultimately be humbled. No social rank, political power, or earthly success can shield someone from God’s authority. Pride may flourish temporarily, but it cannot endure divine judgment. This verse reminds us that humility is the only secure posture before a sovereign and holy God.
7. Luke 14:11
“For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.”
In this teaching of Jesus, we see a complete reversal of worldly values. Society often rewards ambition, self-promotion, and dominance, but God’s kingdom operates differently. Self-exaltation leads to humiliation because it attempts to seize honor that only God can rightfully give. Humility, however, entrusts recognition to the Lord. When we choose a lowly position and serve others sincerely, God is the one who lifts us up at the proper time. This verse encourages believers to pursue quiet faithfulness rather than seeking applause or status.
8. Proverbs 29:23
“A man’s pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.”
This proverb reinforces the certainty that pride ultimately diminishes a person’s standing. Arrogance may produce temporary admiration, but it erodes character and relationships over time. Pride isolates individuals, making them resistant to correction and blind to their faults. In contrast, humility builds trust and earns lasting respect. A humble spirit attracts honor because it reflects integrity and wisdom. This verse reminds us that true elevation does not come from self-promotion but from consistent, humble conduct shaped by reverence for God.
9. Jeremiah 9:23
“Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches.”
God redirects human boasting away from personal achievements. Wisdom, strength, and wealth can easily become sources of pride, fostering a false sense of independence. When people glory in these attributes, they shift their trust from God to themselves. This verse teaches that earthly accomplishments are fragile and temporary. True fulfillment comes not from boasting in personal success but from knowing and understanding the Lord. Humility recognizes that every ability and blessing originates from Him and should ultimately point back to His glory.
10. 1 Peter 5:5
“Be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.”
Peter urges believers to intentionally “clothe” themselves with humility, suggesting that it is a deliberate and visible choice. Just as clothing covers the body, humility should characterize every interaction and attitude. The reminder that God resists the proud emphasizes the seriousness of arrogance. Pride creates spiritual resistance, hindering growth and fellowship with God. In contrast, humility invites grace—God’s empowering presence in our lives. This verse encourages daily surrender, reminding us that spiritual maturity begins with a humble heart before both God and others.
11. Daniel 4:37
“Those that walk in pride he is able to abase.”
These words come from King Nebuchadnezzar after God humbled him dramatically. Once filled with self-glory over his vast kingdom, he learned that earthly power is insignificant before divine sovereignty. His testimony confirms that no one is beyond God’s ability to humble. Pride may elevate a person temporarily, but God can swiftly bring clarity through correction. This verse reminds us that humility is not optional for those under God’s rule. When we acknowledge His supremacy willingly, we avoid the painful lessons that often accompany stubborn arrogance.
12. Psalm 10:4
“The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts.”
This verse reveals how pride affects one’s relationship with God. Arrogance breeds spiritual independence, convincing individuals that they have no need for divine guidance. When pride dominates the heart, prayer becomes unnecessary, and dependence on God fades. The proud person centers life around personal plans and desires rather than seeking the Lord’s will. This spiritual distance is dangerous because it removes the guidance and wisdom that come from God. Humility, by contrast, keeps the heart attentive, prayerful, and aware of constant dependence on Him.
13. Romans 12:3
“Not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly.”
Paul calls believers to a balanced and sober self-assessment. Pride exaggerates personal importance, leading to entitlement, comparison, and competition within the body of Christ. Humility does not mean self-hatred; rather, it means seeing ourselves accurately through God’s perspective. We recognize our gifts while acknowledging they are given by grace. This mindset fosters unity and mutual respect. When we think soberly, we avoid arrogance and remain grounded in gratitude. Healthy humility produces cooperation, while pride disrupts harmony and distorts self-understanding.
14. Proverbs 21:4
“An high look, and a proud heart… is sin.”
This proverb makes a direct and uncompromising statement: pride is sin. Even subtle arrogance expressed through attitude, facial expression, or tone reveals a deeper heart issue. A “high look” symbolizes superiority and contempt for others. Pride often manifests outwardly before it is recognized inwardly. God examines the heart, and He identifies arrogance as offensive to His holiness. This verse challenges believers to evaluate not only their actions but also their inner posture. True repentance begins by confronting pride at its root within the heart.
15. Psalm 138:6
“Though the Lord be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the proud he knoweth afar off.”
This verse beautifully contrasts God’s greatness with His compassion toward the humble. Though exalted above all, He draws near to those who approach Him with lowliness. Pride creates relational distance, causing the proud to experience separation from intimate fellowship with God. Humility, however, invites closeness and favor. The imagery of God knowing the proud “afar off” suggests emotional and spiritual distance. When we humble ourselves, we experience His nearness. This verse reassures us that humility positions us within reach of divine grace and attention.
16. Isaiah 13:11
“I will punish the world for their evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; I will cause the arrogancy of the proud to cease, and will lay low the haughtiness of the terrible.”
This verse reveals that pride is not merely a personal flaw but a global spiritual issue that invites divine judgment. God declares His intention to confront arrogance wherever it rises. The haughtiness of the proud may appear intimidating and unshakable, but it cannot withstand His authority. Pride often fuels injustice, oppression, and cruelty, which is why God promises to bring it to an end. This passage reminds us that humility aligns us with God’s righteousness, while arrogance ultimately places us under His corrective hand.
17. Proverbs 18:12
“Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.”
This proverb highlights two clear paths with opposite outcomes. A haughty heart sets the stage for destruction because it refuses counsel and overestimates its own strength. Pride clouds judgment and leads to reckless decisions that eventually collapse. In contrast, humility prepares the way for honor. When we lower ourselves in submission to God and treat others with respect, He establishes lasting recognition in His timing. The verse teaches that the condition of the heart determines the direction of life—either toward downfall or toward enduring honor.
18. 2 Chronicles 7:14
“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face…”
God connects restoration directly to humility. Before healing or renewal can occur, His people must first humble themselves. Pride blocks repentance because it resists admitting wrongdoing. National and personal revival begin not with outward reform but with inward surrender. Humility opens the heart to prayer, confession, and genuine dependence on God. This verse shows that God responds to contrite hearts with forgiveness and healing. Where pride once hindered blessing, humility creates space for divine intervention and restoration.
19. Philippians 2:3
“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.”
Paul directly confronts pride in relationships and ministry. Strife and vain glory arise when individuals seek personal recognition rather than God’s honor. Pride competes, compares, and demands attention, creating division within the body of Christ. Humility, however, shifts focus outward, valuing others sincerely and serving without selfish ambition. Esteeming others above ourselves does not diminish our worth; it reflects Christ’s example of sacrificial love. This verse teaches that unity and spiritual maturity flourish only where pride is replaced with genuine humility.
20. Micah 6:8
“He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good… and to walk humbly with thy God.”
This verse summarizes God’s expectations in simple yet profound terms. Walking humbly with God is not an occasional act but a daily posture. Pride seeks independence and self-direction, while humility chooses companionship with God. To walk humbly means recognizing His authority, seeking His guidance, and submitting to His will. It reflects a heart that understands its need for divine grace. This Scripture reminds us that true righteousness is inseparable from humility, and faithful living begins with surrendered dependence on Him.
21. Galatians 6:3
“For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.”
Paul delivers a direct warning against inflated self-importance. Pride distorts perception, convincing individuals they are more significant, capable, or righteous than they truly are. This self-deception is spiritually dangerous because it prevents growth, repentance, and dependence on God. When someone believes they have “arrived,” they stop seeking grace. Humility, however, keeps the heart teachable and grounded in truth. Recognizing our limitations does not diminish our value; rather, it positions us to receive strength from God instead of relying on illusion.
22. Proverbs 27:2
“Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.”
This proverb addresses the subtle pride of self-promotion. Boasting about one’s achievements reveals insecurity masked as confidence. True honor carries greater weight when it is recognized by others rather than declared by oneself. Pride seeks validation loudly, while humility works faithfully and allows recognition to come naturally. This verse encourages restraint and trust in God’s timing for elevation. When we resist the urge to advertise our own greatness, we demonstrate confidence rooted not in applause but in quiet integrity.
23. Psalm 101:5
“Whoso privily slandereth his neighbour, him will I cut off: him that hath an high look and a proud heart will not I suffer.”
This verse reveals how pride often expresses itself through contempt and slander. A “high look” symbolizes superiority and disdain toward others. Arrogance not only distances a person from God but also damages relationships. God declares that He will not tolerate such attitudes. Pride fosters division, criticism, and harsh judgment, whereas humility nurtures compassion and unity. This passage reminds us that the condition of our heart toward others matters deeply to God. He calls His people to reflect His character through lowliness and integrity.
24. Isaiah 66:2
“To this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.”
God clearly identifies the type of heart that captures His attention. It is not the self-sufficient or boastful, but the contrite and reverent. A humble spirit acknowledges personal weakness and approaches God with awe. Pride dismisses correction and treats divine truth casually, but humility trembles at His word with respect and obedience. This verse reassures believers that God draws near to those who recognize their need for Him. Brokenness before God becomes the doorway to restoration and favor.
25. Matthew 23:12
“And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.”
In confronting religious hypocrisy, Jesus reaffirms a fundamental kingdom principle. Self-exaltation may impress people temporarily, but it ultimately leads to humiliation. Pride seeks to control recognition and status, while humility entrusts honor to God. The path upward in God’s kingdom always begins with lowering oneself in service and sincerity. This verse challenges believers to examine their motives, especially in spiritual leadership. True greatness is not measured by public admiration but by humble obedience and faithful submission to God’s will.
26. Job 40:11–12
“Cast abroad the rage of thy wrath: and behold every one that is proud, and abase him. Look on every one that is proud, and bring him low.”
In this passage, God challenges Job with questions that highlight divine authority over human pride. Only God possesses the power and wisdom to humble the arrogant perfectly and justly. This confrontation reminds us that pride attempts to elevate human understanding above God’s sovereignty. When individuals assume they can govern life independently of Him, they step into dangerous territory. These verses emphasize that humbling the proud is ultimately God’s prerogative. Recognizing His supremacy cultivates reverence and dismantles any illusion of self-sufficiency.
27. Psalm 36:11
“Let not the foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of the wicked remove me.”
The psalmist prays for protection from the influence and pressure of pride. This request acknowledges that arrogance can approach subtly, threatening to take root in the heart. Pride does not always appear as open boasting; it can manifest through ambition, comparison, or resentment. By asking God to guard him, the psalmist demonstrates humility and awareness of personal vulnerability. This verse teaches that resisting pride requires vigilance and divine help. A humble heart remains dependent on God to preserve integrity and spiritual stability.
28. 1 Corinthians 13:4
“Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up.”
Within Paul’s description of love, pride is explicitly excluded. Genuine love does not boast or inflate itself. Arrogance centers attention on personal importance, while love focuses on the well-being of others. A “puffed up” attitude reflects insecurity disguised as superiority. True Christlike love requires humility because it chooses patience, kindness, and selflessness over recognition. This verse reminds believers that pride and love cannot coexist in the same heart. Where humility thrives, love flourishes freely and reflects God’s character.
29. Habakkuk 2:4
“Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.”
This verse contrasts pride with faith. A soul “lifted up” describes one swollen with self-reliance and independence from God. Such pride distorts righteousness because it trusts personal strength instead of divine provision. In contrast, the just live by faith, acknowledging their dependence on God for guidance and salvation. Pride insists on control, but faith surrenders control to the Lord. This passage reveals that humility is foundational to authentic faith. Without it, spiritual integrity cannot be sustained.
30. Psalm 31:23
“O love the Lord, all ye his saints: for the Lord preserveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer.”
This verse assures believers that God observes both humility and pride. While He preserves the faithful, He also repays the proud according to their actions. The phrase “proud doer” suggests consistent behavior shaped by arrogance. Pride is not merely an inward attitude; it produces outward conduct that disregards God’s authority. God’s justice ensures that such behavior does not go unanswered. This Scripture encourages believers to remain faithful and humble, trusting that God’s righteous judgment will ultimately prevail over arrogance.
31. Ezekiel 28:17
“Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness.”
God addresses the king of Tyre, revealing how pride can arise from admiration, success, or personal gifts. Here, beauty and excellence led to arrogance, which in turn corrupted judgment and wisdom. This verse illustrates that pride is often subtle and grows from achievements rather than mere desire for power. When individuals exalt themselves because of what they possess, they risk spiritual downfall. True wisdom requires humility, acknowledging that every gift and talent originates from God. Recognizing this prevents corruption and promotes reverence over self-exaltation.
32. Mark 9:35
“If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.”
Jesus challenges worldly ambition by redefining greatness in the kingdom of God. Pride drives people to seek first place, recognition, or superiority over others. In contrast, humility leads to service, placing others’ needs before self-interest. This teaching reverses worldly values, showing that true honor comes not from status but from a servant’s heart. By embracing humility, believers align with Christ’s example and reflect His values. The verse emphasizes that self-exaltation ultimately leads to loss, while humble service brings eternal reward.
33. Psalm 73:6
“Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain: violence covereth them as a garment.”
This verse portrays pride as binding, like a chain, restricting perspective and spiritual growth. Those consumed by arrogance become trapped in their own self-importance and often justify wrongdoing to maintain status. Pride can mask vulnerability, but ultimately it enslaves the heart and mind. The psalmist’s imagery warns that what appears as strength and confidence is actually bondage. Humility, by contrast, frees the spirit, allowing repentance, learning, and closer fellowship with God. Recognizing pride as a limiting force is the first step toward liberation and true spiritual maturity.
34. Proverbs 6:16–17
“These six things doth the Lord hate… a proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood.”
Among the things God hates, pride stands prominently, even before overt sin. A “proud look” signifies internal arrogance expressed outwardly, showing contempt for others and independence from God. Pride, like the other listed offenses, disrupts relationships and violates God’s moral order. This verse emphasizes that arrogance is a serious offense in God’s eyes, not a minor flaw. True humility corrects this disposition, cultivating a heart aligned with divine values. The passage challenges believers to examine both their internal attitudes and outward expressions, removing pride from every level of life.
35. Colossians 3:12
“Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering.”
Paul calls believers to actively “put on” humility as part of their spiritual wardrobe. Humbleness is intentional and visible in thought, word, and deed. Pride must be replaced with mercy, patience, and gentleness to reflect Christ’s character. This verse shows that humility is not passive; it is a deliberate choice that shapes relationships and fosters spiritual growth. By embodying lowliness of mind, believers resist arrogance and align themselves with God’s purposes. A humble heart not only receives God’s grace but also extends it to others.
Conclusion
The Bible’s message about arrogance and pride is consistent and uncompromising. Pride deceives, isolates, and ultimately destroys. It leads individuals to trust in their own strength rather than in God’s sustaining grace. Scripture repeatedly shows that pride invites correction, while humility invites blessing. This spiritual principle operates across generations, cultures, and circumstances. Wherever pride takes root, separation from God follows.
Yet the biblical warning against arrogance is also an invitation. It calls us to examine our hearts honestly and to surrender self-exaltation. Humility is not weakness; it is strength under God’s authority. When we humble ourselves, we position our lives under divine grace and protection. We learn to depend fully on the Lord rather than on temporary achievements or human recognition.
As you meditate on these 35 powerful Bible verses about arrogance and pride, allow them to shape your character. Ask God to reveal hidden pride and replace it with a humble spirit. Choose daily to honor Him above yourself. In humility, we discover lasting honor, deeper intimacy with God, and the peace that comes from walking in alignment with His will.
