The Path Beyond Self-Righteousness #203 *

The Path Beyond Self-Righteousness In the shadow of pride, where self-righteousness lies, A spiritual malady, hidden in disguise. Blinding souls to their truth, their condition unwise, Needing divine grace, as the scripture implies. Arrogance alienates, growth it denies, In humility’s embrace, true enlightenment ties. Mercy and forgiveness, the scriptures advise, Against judgment and scorn, our frailty defies. The delusion of moral high ground tries To elevate one’s stance, under the divine skies. Yet, Luke’s words remind, mercy’s prize, Forgiveness transforms, opens our eyes. Romans speaks of judgment, its folly despise, Revealing our flaws, no one’s vice-free, it clarifies. Judging others, our own fault it implies, Divine judgment alone, in truth it relies. Self-righteousness, a path to one’s demise, Rejecting God’s righteousness, the gospel denies. A spiritual blind spot, where danger lies, Faith in God, the only righteous ties. Acknowledging flaws, humility’s prize, Towards spiritual maturity, our soul flies. God’s grace, a gift, pride’s ties it unties, Righteousness through faith, not by our devise. Scriptural warnings, to humility they guide, A call to self-examination, in humility reside. Divine grace and mercy, let them be our stride, Unity and compassion, in God’s love we confide. -Written by Steven G. Lee (February 3, 2024)