The Pharisee in Luke 18:9–14 stands in the temple and prays a prayer that sounds righteous but is centered on himself—his fasting, his tithing, his superiority. The tax collector, by contrast, stands at a distance and barely lifts his eyes. He has no list to offer, only a plea: “God, be merciful to me, a sinner.” Jesus tells us the second man, not the first, went home justified. That reversal is meant to wake us up.
Spiritual arrogance is a subtle shapeshifter. It can wear the garments of zeal, doctrinal precision, moral seriousness, and religious diligence—and yet bends the heart inward, toward “me, myself, and I.” When the self sits at the center, God is pushed to the margins. The soul begins to orbit its own achievements, and prayer becomes a mirror rather than a window.
Spiritual arrogance can lead to a focus on oneself, leading to a lack of connection with God. This can result in comparing oneself to others, comparing one’s achievements to others, and judging harshly while ignoring oneself. This can lead to pride and a lack of attention to God. Poverty of spirit is not about possessions but rather recognizing that all is a gift and that we stand before God as receivers, not owners. Signs of spiritual arrogance include comparing oneself to others, irritating others but not grieving over one’s own sins, resenting correction, and favoring public piety over hidden obedience.
To return to humility, one should engage in daily examens and confessions, begin prayer with gratitude, practice hiddenness, giving, fasting, and serving in ways that no one sees.
May God form our hearts in the likeness of his Son Jesus Christ. Amen.
