The Cure for our Pride

Let’s finish by reflecting on the hymn: "When I survey the wondrous cross on which the Prince of glory died, my richest gain I count but loss, and pour contempt on all my pride." Pride is a preoccupation with self. The gospel is the most humbling thing in life as it brings one down to the reality of being a "sinner saved by grace."

We should consider the warning that pride can still manifest even in those who acknowledge they are "sinners saved by grace through faith." This happens when one starts to believe they are "better than the sinner saved by grace through faith," or that their quality of faith or articulation of it is what saves them.

Compare your best quality with the actions of Jesus: the eternal, perfect, and innocent Son of God, who humbled himself in obedience unto death on a cross. This act secures forgiveness of sins, peace with God, and the free gift of eternal life for people.

Reflect on this statement from Jonathan Edwards: "You contribute nothing to your salvation except the sin that made it necessary." There is no better remedy for self-preoccupation than a preoccupation with Jesus.

We should recognize that the gospel is not just a one-time event; it is what holds Christians together every day. Consider how waking up to the reality of being "a sinner saved by grace" could transform daily life, helping to avoid conflict and leading to better relationships, ultimately glorifying God and pointing to Jesus.

Questions to Consider

• Am I relying on my "quality of faith" instead of the simple truth of being a "sinner saved by grace?"
• How does Jesus's perfect humility on the cross challenge my own pride?
• Am I using the gospel as a daily foundation for humility and better relationships?