It’s hard to ask for help, but only those who humble themselves will find their way back to God.
Talking Points:
- We’re like a Pharisee when we talk about honoring God but we don’t really think we need God. Proverbs 3:34
- We’re like a tax collector when we wallow in self pity rather than embracing God’s forgiveness. Colossians 2:16-23
- Whether we think we’re good enough for God and are sort of doing him a favor, or whether we are so wracked with self-pity that we would never look to God, in both cases, we’re focusing on ourselves instead of on him.
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- On the scale of “Pharisee to tax collector,” where would you say you lie when it comes to pride? Why do you place yourself here on the scale?
- What are some examples of pharisaism you’ve seen in your own life, either in your behavior or in the behavior of others?
- Read Proverbs 3:34. Why do you think God “mocks” the proud but shows grace to the humble?
- What are some examples of people you’ve seen who wallow in self-pity and refuse God’s grace on that basis? Have you ever behaved this way? Explain.
- Read Colossians 2:16-23. What do these verses teach us about being a “tax collector.”
- Both “Pharisees” and pitiful“tax collectors” are self-focused. What must a Pharisee do to have the right kind of humility and become more God-focused?
- What must a pitiful tax collector do to have the right kind of humility and become more God-focused?
- What steps must you take to have the right kind of humility and become more God-focused?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
