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Your Question:
What's the difference between feeling sorry for myself and being honest about my struggles?
Answer:
As a pastor, I've had my fair share of struggles and failures, but I've come to realize that there's a difference between feeling sorry for myself and being honest about my struggles. Feeling sorry for myself is when I point the finger at external circumstances and blame them for my failures. It's a posture of shame, where I feel weighed down by unmet expectations, whether it's my own or others'. On the other hand, being honest about my struggles means acknowledging that I haven't measured up to my own expectations or the expectations of others. It's about taking responsibility for my actions and admitting when I'm wrong. This is a crucial distinction, as it requires humility and a willingness to confront my own flaws. When I'm honest about my struggles, I'm not trying to shift the blame or excuse myself; I'm acknowledging the areas where I need to grow and improve. As I reflect on my own experiences, I've realized that feeling sorry for myself can often be a form of self-pity, which is rooted in pride. It's a way of grieving that others don't see me as the great person I am. But being honest about my struggles is a sign of humility, which is essential for growth and change. It's not about excusing my flaws, but about acknowledging them and seeking to improve. This is a crucial aspect of my faith, and it's something I strive for in my own life and in the lives of those I pastor.
Sources:
depression
edward welch
true sexual morality
daniel heimbach
sacred marriage
gary thomas
addictions a banquet in the grave
edward t welch
practicing the way
john mark comer
on guard
william lane craig
introduction biblical ethics
robertson mcquilkin
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