“not having a righteousness of my own…but that which is through faith in Christ” Philippians 3:9
Are you self-righteous? While this question can be uncomfortable, it’s essential for every believer to consider. Anytime we focus on ourselves— what we do or don’t do—we risk slipping into self-righteousness. Genuine faith can easily turn into a proud and judgmental attitude if we’re not careful. So how do we guard against this? What are the keys to overcoming self-righteousness?
First, we have to remember that the “dos” and “don’ts” in Scripture aren’t the cause of our righteousness. Viewing them as a checklist to accomplish leads to legalism, which is a trap the Pharisees fell into. Legalistic Christianity knows what it’s against. It emphasizes following rules over following Jesus, often leading to a harsh and judgmental spirit.
Second, we need to stop comparing ourselves to others. The apostle Paul warned that measuring our actions against that of other believers is a sign of spiritual immaturity (2 Corinthians 10:12). Comparison can also be pride in disguise, even when we struggle with insecurity. Remember, pride isn’t just thinking too much of yourself; it’s thinking of yourself at all!
The primary key to overcoming self-righteousness is growing in our knowledge of Jesus. When we focus on knowing Him better each day, we stop striving for righteousness through our own actions. Instead, we live in the righteousness that comes through faith in Him, which results in humility. It’s recognizing that we don’t deserve God’s mercy or grace, much less praise for anything we do or don’t do in service to Him.
This all goes back to knowing our identity and purpose. When our highest purpose is the pursuit of Christ, we quit trying to be righteous and simply live in the righteousness we already have in Him. It’s not about our righteousness but His. Our identity is found in Christ alone, not in what we do or how we compare to others.
Where is your focus—on yourself, on others, or on Jesus? Take time to examine your heart and mind. Yes, self-examination can be uncomfortable but it’s vital to the Christian life. Stop following religious rules and pursue an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. Compare yourself to Him and Him alone. If your highest pursuit is to know Him better each day, right thoughts and actions will follow.
