Many Christians are so self-righteous. I guess this is simply a part of our sinful nature from the fall of mankind. I'm sure you thought of some people who fit into the phrase 'self-righteous' soon after you read it. I think many folks do it. They hear a sermon in church and they are sitting their thinking, "oh so and so needs to hear this". We so desperately want to feel like we've arrived in our 'Holiness' that we fall into this trap.
I am re-reading James this week. Chapter 2 had some points I would like to bring forward.
James spoke in verse 13 about being merciful to others; this was really good for me to see again. We have a few people in our family who require mercy quite often. At times it can be tiring to the spirit and the flesh would insist that we shut them out or give them the cold shoulder. However, if we apply verses 9-12 to ourselves then we can see that we also need God's mercy on us on a daily basis. We often get into the thinking that one sin is bigger or less offensive than the other but the truth is, if you told a lie (of any color) you have broken the law (of God) and are just as much a sinner in God's eyes as the murderer or the alcoholic.
The solution: Ask God to forgive you and help you to have a heart that closely resembles His.
Final thoughts: When seeking to live as Christ did, what I am learning is that you have to love above all else. When people talk about you, despise you, are jealous of you, abuse you or hurt you...you simply have to continue to do good to them and love them anyway. This type of strength can only come reading your Word daily, time in prayer, and actually applying the principles you learn. Trust me when those opportunities to grow arise...You'll know! I've learned to sing a song of praise in the midst of turmoil. I quote scripture to encourage my spirit and kill my flesh. I smile when I want to say or do harm. Love is the greatest gift!
His servant,
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