In Luke 18:9-14 Jesus tells a parable about a Pharisee and a tax collector who went up into the temple to pray. It is one of the best lessons on humility versus self-righteousness. The tax collector was aware of his sinfulness and prayed, “God, be merciful to me, the sinner” (Luke 18:13). It reminds me of the psalmist, “…I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me” (Psalm 51:3).
For a practicing alcoholic to recover, they must admit they have a problem. Many of the “twelve steps” involve letting go of pride and admitting they are an alcoholic. There can be no healthy sobriety without this. Such is the case with salvation. There must be that “swallowing of pride” and acceptance of the fact that one has done wrong.
All this is contrary to Satan’s approach. For instance, before I became a Christian, I always maintained that if a person was 51% good and 49% bad he/she was okay. There was no need to admit the 49% bad because the 51% good covered it. This idea prevents many today from responding to God.
It can be self-destructive to dwell on our sins. We shouldn’t spend all day thinking about them. But it is necessary for each of us to humble ourselves before God and acknowledge His holiness and our sinfulness. Then we are on the road to recovery.
“It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all.”
1 Timothy 1:15
….Mike