Suggestions for antidotes to self-righteousness

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crenfro

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Hello.

This week’s Gospel had the Prodigal son story. Also, I believe I have a lot of the deficiencies of the older son -the judgmental, resentful, long-suffering seething deficiencies that I wish were burned out of my personality, though I’d prefer them to be much more gently removed.

I’d appreciate all and any thoughts regarding this issue!
 
crenfro said:
Hello.

This week’s Gospel had the Prodigal son story. Also, I believe I have a lot of the deficiencies of the older son -the judgmental, resentful, long-suffering seething deficiencies that I wish were burned out of my personality, though I’d prefer them to be much more gently removed.

I’d appreciate all and any thoughts regarding this issue!
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Pray for God to allow you to be humbled. That should turn you around quickly.
 
Continually repent of your sins and ask God for humility and a greater willingness to forgive others.
 
Pray that you will be humiliated.

Being embarrassed is really humbling.

JD
 
Johndigger said:
Pray that you will be humiliated.

Being embarrassed is really humbling.

JD
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Fortunately or not, I have no need to pray for embarrassments and humiliations - they just happen on occasion. I try to offer each one up and take it as a lesson against undue pride.

The main way to eliminate pride is simply to continually acknowledge the real source of every good thing we do and possess - God - and give Him the thanks and glory of it.
 
This week’s Gospel had the Prodigal son story. Also, I believe I have a lot of the deficiencies of the older son -the judgmental, resentful, long-suffering seething deficiencies that I wish were burned out of my personality, though I’d prefer them to be much more gently removed.
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I’d appreciate all and any thoughts regarding this issue!
Click to expand...
The Superordinary Form had the working on the sabbath gospel (also from Luke) today but point well-taken about the Prodigal Son. In fact several years ago it was my penance after being away from the sacraments for 26 years to reflect on this passage. Needless to say it’s one of my favorite ones and I concur with all the posters here. I’ve been in both spots and can identify with each son.
 
I also encourage you to engage in corporal works of mercy– visit the sick and infirm, work at a food pantry, visit prisoners, engage in ministry in a homeless shelter.

Caring for others helps rid us of selfishness. Getting to know those people whom we may see as “other” helps us to be humble and appreciative of all that we have and makes them more real to us.
 
crenfro said:
Hello.

This week’s Gospel had the Prodigal son story. Also, I believe I have a lot of the deficiencies of the older son -the judgmental, resentful, long-suffering seething deficiencies that I wish were burned out of my personality, though I’d prefer them to be much more gently removed.

I’d appreciate all and any thoughts regarding this issue!
Click to expand...
Isn’t it being self-righteous to think one can identify self-righteousness in others? I would tend to think such a judgement can only be viable as a self-judgement.:shrug:And if you see these deficiences in oneself, then half of your battle is won.
 
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