The Danger of Self-Worship: Humility in A World of Pride

James 4:3, 5

“Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts. Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?”

We live in a culture that tells us to “follow your heart,” “look out for yourself,” and “chase your dreams no matter what.” While ambition and self-care aren’t inherently wrong, Scripture warns us about something deeper and far more dangerous: our natural inclination toward lust and pride.

James tells us plainly: sometimes the reason our prayers go unanswered is because we ask with the wrong motives. Instead of seeking God’s will, we want to satisfy our own desires. And when those desires take the driver’s seat, they lead to self-worship; what today’s psychologists might call narcissism.

1️⃣ We All Have Lusts

It’s not just “bad people” who struggle with lust. Every human being wrestles with it in some form, not just sexual lust, but the craving for control, recognition, comfort, or possessions.

James 4:2 lays it bare:

“Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.”

This isn’t just about murder or physical battles; it’s about the conflicts in our hearts that spill over into our relationships. Our desire to get our own way often leads to frustration, envy, and broken fellowship with others.

Practical Application:

• Check your motives when you pray. Before you ask God for something, pause and ask: Is this for my glory or His?
• Identify your “lust triggers.” Is it scrolling social media and comparing yourself? Does one always need to have the last word in an argument? Recognizing these patterns is the first step toward surrendering them to God.

2️⃣ Narcissism in the Church

We often think of narcissism as an issue “out there” in the world, but it is alive and well in the church.

Some measure success by home ownership, bank accounts, or influence. Yet Jesus was crystal clear in Luke 12:15 and 21:

“Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth… So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.”

The American Dream, or any cultural ideal centered on material success, can be a subtle but powerful rival to the kingdom of God. It promises fulfillment but often leaves people spiritually bankrupt.

I’ve seen it: a generation with significant wealth but little connection to the younger generation. The result? A loss of love, mentorship, and meaningful discipleship.

Practical Application:

• Evaluate your treasure. Are you “rich toward God” or only toward your bank account?
• Invest in relationships. Instead of building bigger barns (Luke 12:18), build bridges across generations in your church and community.

3️⃣ The Worship of Self Destroys Relationships

When self becomes our god, relationships inevitably suffer. Pride tells us we must be right, we must win, and we must be recognized. Humility, on the other hand, releases control to God.

James 4:6–7, 11–12 reminds us:

“But He giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God… Speak not evil one of another, brethren… Who art thou that judgest another?”

Notice the connection: pride not only resists God, but it also speaks evil of others. Pride leads to judgmentalism, gossip, and division, while humility leads to grace, unity, and peace.

Practical Application:

• Practice “pause before speak.” Before offering criticism, ask: Is this helpful? Is this loving? Is it necessary?
• Submit daily. Start each day with a prayer: “Lord, I surrender my pride, my agenda, and my words to You today.”

4️⃣ We Are Never in Control; God Is

The truth that humbles us most is this: we are never truly in control. Our careers, relationships, health, and plans are all subject to God’s sovereign will. That’s why He calls us to submit, not because He wants to strip us of joy, but because His way is always better.

When God speaks, we should listen. His Word is not just ancient wisdom; it is living and active (Hebrews 4:12), and it exposes the areas where pride and self-worship have taken root.

5️⃣ Why This Matters for You and Me

We might nod in agreement with these Scriptures, but the real question is: Will we give up our pride to obey God and His Word?

Humility isn’t weakness; it’s strength under God’s control. It’s choosing to lay down our right to be first so that Christ can be glorified.

In a world obsessed with self-promotion, choosing humility will make you stand out, not for your own fame, but as a reflection of Jesus, who “made himself of no reputation” (Philippians 2:7).

Key Takeaways

• Lust isn’t just physical; it’s any strong desire that puts self above God.
• Narcissism can thrive in the church if we value possessions or influence over relationships and spiritual health.
• Pride destroys; humility heals. God’s grace flows to the humble.
• We are not in control, and that’s good news, because God is.

Reflection Questions

💡 When you pray, are your requests driven by God’s glory or your own desires?

💡 Are you “rich toward God” or just rich toward yourself?

💡 How can you humble yourself today in your relationships with others?

Final Encouragement

Pride whispers, You deserve more. You should be first. Humility answers, I have enough because I have Christ.

The fight against self-worship is daily, but it is worth it. As we submit to God, He reshapes our desires, strengthens our relationships, and fills us with a joy that money, status, or control could never provide.

Call to Action

This week, take one tangible step toward humility. Maybe it’s apologizing to someone you’ve hurt, listening more than speaking, or giving anonymously. Whatever it is, do it as an offering to God.

Let’s be a people known not for our self-promotion, but for our God-exaltation.

Recommended Resource

Ready to grow as a disciple of Jesus? Michael Heilman’s Life According to the Truth offers real-life wisdom, biblical teaching, and practical steps to help you live a victorious Christian life.