This pretty much summarizes the self righteous attitude I sometimes have. Yet, when I truly look at myself I am HUMBLED by my own flaws and imperfections. It was eye opening and humbling for me to realize that I had nothing to do with my eternal salvation. It was not the result of me choosing to be saved, but the result of GOD choosing to save me while I was still a sinner. It was not based on merit but solely on God's love, mercy and grace.
In the moment that I came to understand and believe this, the pride I had as a church going Christian was gone as I realized I was not loved more than those who do not go to church…and that all humanity would be saved, not just me and my church family.
The Apostle Paul expressed this when he said under inspiration from God….
“The GRACE of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the FAITH and LOVE that are in Christ Jesus. Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to SAVE sinners of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown MERCY so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display His immense patience as an example for those who would believe in Him and receive eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.” (1 Timothy 1:14-17)
“The GRACE of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the FAITH and LOVE that are in Christ Jesus. Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to SAVE sinners of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown MERCY so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display His immense patience as an example for those who would believe in Him and receive eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.” (1 Timothy 1:14-17)
“It is a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance. For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all humanity, especially of believers. Prescribe and teach these things.” (1 Timothy 4:9-11)
Yep, only those who are first humbled can be exalted.
“…everyone who exalts himself will be abased, and he who is humbled will be exalted. (Luke 18:14)
Yep, only those who are first humbled can be exalted.
“…everyone who exalts himself will be abased, and he who is humbled will be exalted. (Luke 18:14)