“On the appointed day Herod, wearing his royal robes, sat on his throne and delivered a public address to the people. They shouted, ‘This is the voice of a god, not of a man.’ Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died.” (Acts 12:21-23)

Other rulers had believed they were gods and didn’t die like Herod. What was the difference? Herod was a Jew, and knew better than to accept such praise. This was a direct sin against God that needed judgement. Herod’s pride received the praise of the people (non-Jews), as to being a god, and was struck by an angel with a deadly disease. God will answer with His power when there is a direct attack upon His integrity. Yet, we note, that this death was not a result of human hands. God did it directly through an angel.

Pride does go before a fall, “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Prov. 16:18) Herod was full of it. And Herod died of it. There are some today who have promoted themselves as a god, or becoming a god. They are committing a very dangerous sin. Such pride will only lead to their eventual destruction. God will not be mocked in this way and His judgement will certainly be seen. We must humble ourselves before the Lord, and not be full of ourselves.

Heavenly Father, Your control over all Your creation is supreme. You order everything and make Your true presence known through Your Son, Jesus. We humble ourselves and confess any sin of pride we may have that keeps us from giving You all the glory. May we glorify You more.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Pastor Robert Forsberg is retired from Light of Christ Lutheran Church in Fairborn.