What is wrong with trusting in ourselves to lead our lives? Those who put themselves first always hurt others. The Bible calls this self-centered orientation sin, because sin is whatever breaks right relationship with God and others (Isaiah 59:2).

Maybe we don’t think we are that bad, but Romans 3:23 says that “everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.” This has immediate and eternal consequences, for the Bible says “people are selfish. They refuse to follow truth. …They will be punished with eternal destruction, forever separated from the Lord.” (Romans 2:8; 2 Thessalonians 1:9). In spite of our excuses, God can’t allow us to enter his kingdom because our selfishness would destroy its goodness. Do you think your sin and self-centeredness separates you from God and others?