Self-righteous pride keeps a scorecard and always wins. Jesus said the man who beat his chest and begged for mercy went home right with God, not the one who listed his good works.
What the Bible says
“But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.”James 4:6 · KJV
“Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.”Proverbs 16:18 · KJV
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”Ephesians 2:8–9 · KJV
3 steps
- Pray the tax collector’s prayer today: “God be merciful to me a sinner.”
- Thank God for one person you have looked down on.
- Ask someone close where you come across as proud — and just listen.
Follow the daily Short
Questions
Why does God resist the proud?
“God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble” (James 4:6). Pride refuses the grace it needs.
Is self-confidence the same as pride?
Self-righteous pride is trusting in yourself that you are righteous and despising others (Luke 18:9). That is the bondage Jesus named.
How is salvation not something I earn?
“By grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast” (Ephesians 2:8–9).