Oftentimes, we wallow in self-pity, when our circumstances are not so good. Self-pity is a sin of "self". It feels good to worry and pity yourself when you are wronged. It even feels right to do so and like every other sin, we tend to blame others and life circumstances for this sin as well.
You may ask, "What? You are saying that I am blessed beyond measure? Do you know my problems and situation?". I don't know about your painful circumstances, but if you are Christian, you are blessed beyond measure. Why? Because God has chosen you out of millions to be His child and He has promised an Eternal inheritance in Heaven for you.
The psalmist writes that he was worried about the fact that the wicked people were flourishing and living happily, while God's children were suffering. He then realizes that he was wrong when he went to the house of God and remembered their end.
The one thing we should always be thankful for is "The Free Gift of Salvation".
Psalm 73:
12Behold, these are the ungodly people, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches.
13Verily I have cleansed my heart in vain and washed my hands in innocency.
14For all the day long have I been plagued and chastened every morning.
15If I say, I will speak thus; behold, I should offend against the generation of thy children.
16When I thought to know this, it was too painful for me;
17Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then understood I their end.
How can we know that God is in control of everything in the life of His children and still pity ourselves for our situation?
The truth is that, deep in our hearts, we don't fully trust that God is in control of every single thing in our lives and that He will make all things work for our ultimate eternal good.
If things are not working out for you, maybe God is working on your character or He is trying to draw you still closer to Him or He is trying to increase and build your faith, for which you will be thankful later.
Isaiah 55:8 - For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.
The devil wants to upset you and steal your joy by encouraging self-pity, while God wants you to trust in Him and do what you can do for God's kingdom during this period of time. Things will change (even if it is only in heaven), while the devil will say it will never. The devil will want you to be near-sighted, but God wants you to look beyond the earthly life. In the light of eternity, your current reason for self-pity is nothing.
You upset the devil when you keep thanking and praising God, despite your many troubles. You get rewards in heaven and powerful testimony on earth when you stand firm in faith and good works, amidst the trials.
So, what will you choose today? Self-Pity or God's Purpose?
This Post: Is Self-Pity a Sin?
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Walking in Obedience to God's Word
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Put Your Faith In God, Not Things or Others