Facing the Sin I Pretend I Don’t See – From the Desk of D. Bryan King

867 words, 5 minutes read time.

The Pharisee in My Mirror

There are days I look in the mirror and like what I see: a man who’s been through hell, who fights for his family, works hard, and keeps his commitments. But there’s another reflection—one I avoid. One that whispers about pride, judgment, and the subtle ways I elevate myself over others. That’s the Pharisee in me. And if you’re honest, it’s in you too.

Life knocks you down. Responsibilities pile up. And quietly, the temptation to compare, criticize, or see yourself as “better than” others grows. That’s the voice of the Pharisee. He’s polite, disciplined, but self-deceived—and he thrives in the dark corners of our daily lives.

Scripture Focus: Luke 18:9–14 (NIV)

“To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else, Jesus told this parable: ‘Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed: “God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.” But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, “God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God.’”

Jesus warned us about Pharisees—not because they were “bad,” but because they didn’t see themselves clearly. Pride and self-righteousness blind us to sin. But the tax collector’s humility—and honest confession—is what brings him life.

Why Seeing Sin Clearly Matters

It’s easy to focus on the obvious “big” sins and ignore the quiet, corrosive stuff: bitterness, envy, judgment, lust in thought, or resentment toward those who have something you don’t. These are the sins that build walls between you and God, your family, and other men.

Seeing sin clearly requires brutal honesty. It demands stopping the excuses and naming what’s in the mirror without flinching. And here’s the good news: God’s mercy is bigger than the sin you uncover.

How to Face the Pharisee in Your Mirror

1. Start With Daily Honesty

Take a few minutes each morning to ask God to show the pride, anger, or self-deception you carry. Name one area where you compare yourself to others or hold up your accomplishments as proof of worth.

2. Build Accountability

Find a brother in Christ or a trusted group of men where you can be honest. Share the struggles you hide behind discipline, duty, or image. Simply being seen honestly can lift a weight you didn’t realize you were carrying.

3. Embrace Humility in Action

Small acts of service, generosity, and vulnerability chip away at the Pharisee in you. Serve without expecting recognition, listen without judgment, forgive without conditions. These daily steps kill pride slowly but surely.

4. Cling to Hope

Confession doesn’t make you weak; it makes you strong enough to live with eyes wide open. God’s grace empowers you to get up, to love, and to try again—even when life has beaten you down. Sin may still be in the mirror tomorrow—but it no longer has the final word.

Closing Prayer

Father, help me to see myself clearly, without excuses or pretense. Show me the hidden pride and sin I try to hide, and grant me the courage to confess and turn. Fill me with Your mercy, renew my strength, and shape me into a man who walks humbly with You. Amen.

Reflection / Journaling Questions

What practical step can I take this week to confess sin and embrace humility?
What is one area in my life where I measure my worth by performance rather than God’s grace?
In what ways do I compare myself to others or allow pride to creep in?

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bdking71

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Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this post are solely those of the author. The information provided is based on personal research, experience, and understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing. Readers should consult relevant experts or authorities for specific guidance related to their unique situations.