Reproach, disrespect and accusation from others is one thing; but, when it comes from your own heart it’s quite another. When catastrophe struck Job, and his friends came to minister to him as it were, he made a very profound statement: “My righteousness I hold fast, and will not let it go: my heart shall not reproach me so long as I live” (Job 27:6).
While it’s important to avoid self-righteousness, it is equally important to avoid self-degradation, which goes beyond the stereotypical false humility some like to exhibit. This is downright self-condemnation coupled with self-shame. These ungodly mindsets do not lead to repentance, much less, please God. Furthermore, they do not benefit the individual or the Kingdom. A catastrophe does not necessarily mean there’s a need for repentance. Things happen! In Job’s case, his severe loss and hardship were not the result of sin. It wasn’t something he “deserved.” By the way, be careful about judging others who undergo hardship. We’ve all heard someone say, “He deserved it!” When it gets down to it, we all deserved the wrath of God, but what’s His take on the matter?
And all things are of God, Who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18-19).
Casting aspersions on yourself may be a form of self-righteousness, because it is not centered on the true righteousness found in Jesus Christ. Is your sin greater than the Blood? Can your unrighteous acts undo the righteousness of Jesus? Will self-condemnation change things for the better, or even begin to make things up to God? If He decided to forgive you and cleanse you of your sin (see 1 John 1:9), who are you to condemn yourself?
The way to eliminate condemnation and self-condemnation is simply to stand on the righteousness of Jesus (see 2 Corinthians 5:21). Ephesians 4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Self-degradation along with self-sabotage and destruction do not please God. If you want to please Him or feel the need to “make up for a thing,” do things His way. Repent, receive His forgiveness and live for Jesus. If something goes wrong, do not assume it’s because of sin or that you somehow asked for it. Of course, bad decisions can lead to negative consequences, but bad decisions are not who you are. Ask for wisdom when you lack clarity, and do remember, “All things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).
