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:
  1. Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
  2. 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?
  3. What are some examples of pharisaism you’ve seen in your own life, either in your behavior or in the behavior of others?
  4. Read Proverbs 3:34. Why do you think God “mocks” the proud but shows grace to the humble?
  5. 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.
  6. Read Colossians 2:16-23. What do these verses teach us about being a “tax collector.”
  7. 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?
  8. What must a pitiful tax collector do to have the right kind of humility and become more God-focused?
  9. What steps must you take to have the right kind of humility and become more God-focused?
  10. Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
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