We are all naturally self-righteous. It is the family disease of all the children of Adam.
J. C. RylePeople may refuse to see the truth of our arguments, but they cannot evade the evidence of a holy life.
J. C. RyleHappy are they, who in the matter of marriage observe three rules. The first is to marry only in the Lord, and after prayer for Godโs approval and blessing. The second is not to expect too much from their partners, and to remember that marriage is, after all, the union of two sinners, and not of two angels. The third rule is to strive first and foremost for one anotherโs sanctification. The more holy married people are, the happier they are.
J. C. RyleWhat will it cost [a person] to be a true Christian? It will cost him his self-righteousn ess. He must cast away all pride and high thoughts, and conceit of his own goodness. He must be content to go to heaven as a poor sinner, saved only by free grace, and owing all to the merit and righteousness of another.
J. C. RyleDo nothing that you would not like God to see. Say nothing you would not like God to hear. Write nothing you would not like God to read. Go no place where you would not like God to find you. Read no book of which you would not like God to say, "Show it to Me." Never spend your time in such a way that you would not like to have God say, "What are you doing?
J. C. Ryle