A Lesson in Humility

Christian overconfidence isn’t a wise investment. No, it leads to self-righteousness. It’s a lesson in humility because salvation is a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8-10).  

I’m not saying faith in Jesus doesn’t bring us eternal assurance (John 10:28-29), but to live beyond my spiritual boundaries shows others a spiritual cockiness unwelcome by Christ (Matthew 7:1-6). When I place myself above other sinners, it demonstrates a Christian life centered on judgment and not one of love. This mindset isn’t anchored in salvation. No, it shows my spiritual deception. 

Biblical Examples of Overconfidence

We both agree that Christ exposed the Pharisee’s arrogant relationship with God (Matthew 23: 1-36). Their prideful behaviors are unfavorable to the Lord and exemplify overconfidence. They knew God but failed to accept Jesus as the promised Messiah (Isaiah 7:14 John 3: 10:11-12). Their self-deception led them into eternal darkness.

Christ shows us why humility is a lesson from overconfidence.

Jesus said:

Also He spoke this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other men—extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess. And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Luke 18:9-14 NKJV

In this parable, Christ heightens God’s response to humility. He points out that it’s worthy to approach the Lord with meekness. We see humbling ourselves before God as a justification from Him for our actions. This incredible experience draws us closer to Christ. And from this oneness with our Creator, our lives radiate the undeniable reality of salvation.

On the negative side, arrogance brings forth humiliation in God’s eyes. Exaltation of oneself in front of our Father leads to a lesson in humility. Christ highlighted that sharing personal accolades with God doesn’t grab His attention. No, it shows Him self-absorption.

Another extraordinary revelation of biblical overconfidence is how the Apostle Peter fell victim to its deception. Peter pleased Christ when he proclaimed Jesus as God’s Son (Mark 8:29). Shortly after Peter said those words, he showed an arrogant attitude toward Jesus’s fate (Mark 8:31-33). As if that isn’t enough evidence of his overconfidence, he told Christ there was no way he would deny Him as the Messiah (Luke 22:31-34).

My Overconfidence

In my journey with Christ, I fall for the trap of overconfidence. This happens on occasion, and it comes through judging others. I find myself judgmental towards others’ sinful behavior results from my self-righteous outlook. For example, when I notice another Christian treating others with intolerance, I tell myself, “I’m glad God removed that from my life.” Yet, I, too, become impatience with others.

The neat reality of a life with Christ is how the Holy Spirit corrects my wrongdoings. When I sin, the Spirit of truth makes my conscience uncomfortable, leading me to repentance. Then God steps in and shows me forgiveness.

Conclusion

Given these points, we see the significance of humility. Confidence is a sign of a saved life and a byproduct of trusting Christ. However, when I use it to exalt myself, it becomes a problem, and humility is the antidote for overconfidence.

What are your thoughts?