Ophidiophobia is the fear of snakes. There are approximately 3000 varieties of the crawling creatures. The Black Mamba is one of the most deadly among them. Its venom can easily deliver ten times the neurotoxins necessary to kill a human. That is pretty scary stuff! But there is a snake that is more common and much more deadly than the Black Mamba.
Jonathan Edwards wrote "that pride is the worst viper that is in the heart, the greatest disturber of the soul's peace and sweet communion with Christ; it was the first sin that ever was, and lies lowest in the foundation of Satan's whole building." Edwards was on the mark. The Scriptures say,
Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. (Proverbs 16:18 ESV)
Today, you've heard about two snakes? Which causes you more fear? I've got a hunch that most of us are more concerned about the Black Mamba than we are the viper of pride. But it is pride which lurks in far greater numbers and creates far more damage in our homes, our businesses, and our communities. When it comes to viper called pride, ask God to give you ophidiophobia.
MY PRAYER: Father, please help me not to get bit by the snake of pride.