Has anyone ever asked you “Are you a good person?” It’s a question that might seem simple at first, but it digs deep into our hearts and minds. Most of us like to think we’re better than average, more moral, more just. But what if we’re not as good as we think? What if our self-righteousness is the biggest delusion we face? This is a journey of self-discovery, a path to knowing ourselves so that we can truly know God.
The blog series “Emotionally Healthy Spirituality” challenges us to confront our self-perceptions and biases. We often believe we’re smarter, friendlier, and more ambitious than others. Yet, even those who have committed serious crimes often see themselves as more moral than the average person. This self-enhancement motive is powerful, and it can blind us to the truth about ourselves. But Jesus calls us to a different path, one of humility and repentance.
In the Bible, Jesus tells the story of a Pharisee and a tax collector. The Pharisee boasts of his righteousness, while the tax collector humbly asks for mercy. Jesus says it’s the humble tax collector who goes home justified before God. This story reminds us that self-righteousness is a trap, and true righteousness comes from recognizing our need for God’s grace.
Understanding Our False Selves
We all wear masks, hiding our true selves behind layers of self-deception. We convince ourselves that we’re good, that we’re right, that we’re better than others. But this is a false self, a delusion that keeps us from truly knowing God. Augustine, Meister Eckhart, and St. Teresa of Avila all emphasized the importance of self-knowledge in our spiritual journey. Without it, we can’t draw close to God.
We cannot know God without knowing ourselves, and we cannot know ourselves without knowing God. The two kinds of knowledge are interdependent–they rise or fall together. – Timothy Keller
The Bible tells us that no one is good except God alone. Our human nature is flawed, and we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Yet, we often act as if we’re the heroes of our own stories, forgetting that Jesus is the true hero. We need to shed our false identities and embrace the truth of who we are in Christ.
Taking Action: Embrace Humility and Repentance
So, what can we do? First, we must admit that we’re not as good as we think. This requires humility, a willingness to see ourselves as we truly are. We need to repent, to turn away from our self-righteousness and seek God’s forgiveness. This isn’t easy, but it’s essential for spiritual growth.
Next, we should focus on our true identity in Christ. We are God’s children, chosen and loved. Our value doesn’t come from what we do, what we have, or what others think of us. It comes from God alone. By embracing this truth, we can find freedom from the need to prove ourselves.
Finally, let’s practice gratitude and compassion. Recognize the value in others, not because of their achievements or possessions, but because they are also children of God. This shift in perspective can transform our relationships and help us live more like Jesus.
Books I Enjoyed on this Topic:
The Truth about Us – Brant Hanson
Emotionally Healthy Spirituality – Peter Scazzero
Emotionally Healthy Discipleship – Peter Scazzero
(Amazon Affiliate Links)
Are you a good person?
The journey to emotional and spiritual health begins with self-awareness. We must confront our biases, admit our shortcomings, and embrace the truth of who we are in Christ. Jesus wants our whole hearts, and that means letting go of our self-righteousness and false identities. What steps will you take this week to humble yourself and draw closer to God?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble hearts, acknowledging that we are not as good as we often think. Help us to see ourselves clearly and to repent of our self-righteousness. Teach us to embrace our true identity in Christ and to find our value in Your love. Guide us in showing compassion and grace to others, reflecting Your goodness in all we do. Amen.
“I’m bad, and that’s good. I will never be good, and that’s not bad. There’s no one I’d rather be than me.” – Wreck It Ralph