The Punch of Self-Righteousness

Recently I heard a brother’s testimony and I was struck by his word choice. As he shared some of his journey he described the condition of his heart in relation to the heart of Jesus. He used the descriptor “self-righteous”. It grabbed my attention for a couple of reasons, one, this man is a dear brother in Christ and I quite admire his genuine care and concern for others; believers and those have yet to have a saving relationship with Christ. While he humbly and openly shared about this part of his heart it was a clear example of God’s strength in weakness. While I have often heard that phrase this provided me with a clearer context and understanding. What I so much love and appreciate about this brother is actually “Christ”. True evidence of Christ in him.

Secondly, the word “self righteous” took an internal reflection on my own heart. Many a time I have found myself aware of my own critical heart and would use that word. Critical. Oh so many instances that my thoughts and opinions well up within me about the way a parent interacts with their child, the way a family member lives their life, the way someone spends their money or time, the way a co-worker handles a situation, to the way leader facilitates a meeting or even a person guides a Bible study or small group. I am sure there are more, unfortunately.

While it may seem simple the difference between the word choice of “critical” and “self-righteous”, I would suggest ‘self righteous’ packs a bit more of a punch to the reality of my heart in it. When those thoughts enter my mind from my heart; it is out of a focus of my self and thinking I am right or my way is better. Maybe. Do I consider the other’s perspective?, do I consider or know the whole circumstance to fairly assess what may be best?, is it possible that this ‘other’ way is equally okay — if not better? If I answer those honestly, self righteous and even arrogant would likely be better descriptors.

So I consider once again what I see my brother demonstrate often; love, grace and truth. By the strength of Christ he endeavors to look at others and situations with these traits of heart. Even when there is clear Biblical truth to a situation that he observes he strives to approach it with love and grace as Jesus would.

This serves as another example of the power another persons story of Christ in their life, another example of HIS story. May you be encouraged and challenged by it as well; for our weakness is a place for His strength to evident and redemptive. Oh Lord, may you help us see the self-righteousness of our own hearts and guide us to men and women of love, grace and truth.