Self-Respect and Self-Righteousness

Name: Self-Respect and Self-Righteousness
Author: Charles Kingsley

The work explores the distinction between self-respect and self-righteousness, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging one's flaws while maintaining integrity. It critiques the tendency to falsely accuse oneself of sins not committed, particularly among those with melancholic dispositions. The author warns against the dangers of self-righteousness, where individuals may pride themselves on their confessions of sin, thus masking a deeper arrogance. The text advocates for a balanced self-assessment, encouraging individuals to recognize their moral efforts without falling into the trap of legalism or despair. It highlights the necessity of understanding God's nature as loving and forgiving, which fosters genuine humility and the courage to confront one's shortcomings. The author cites biblical figures like Job and David to illustrate the importance of self-honesty and the pursuit of righteousness. Ultimately, the work calls for a relationship with God that is rooted in trust and the acknowledgment of His grace, urging readers to strive for moral excellence while relying on divine support for personal growth and correction. The overarching message is that true self-respect comes from a clear understanding of oneself in relation to God, leading to a life of integrity and responsibility towards others.

By Charles Kingsley · First published 1853 · Genre: Non-Fiction, Self-help, Psychology · 3,406 words

First lines

Give sentence for me, O Lord, according to my righteousness; and according to the innocency that is in me. - PSALM vii. 8

IS this speech self-righteous? If so, it is a bad speech; for self-righteousness is a bad temper of mind; there are few worse. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar.

What this Textopian page supports

Self-Respect and Self-Righteousness is listed on Textopian as a speech by Charles Kingsley, dated 1853 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Speech
Author: Charles Kingsley
Date: 1853 CE
Language: English
Genres: Non-Fiction, Self-help, Psychology, Philosophy
Length: 3,406 words
Structure: 1 section, 37 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Non-Fiction — The title 'SELF-RESPECT AND SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS' indicates a discussion of personal development, likely involving self-reflective thoughts and insights, making it non-fiction in nature.
Self-help — Covering the subject of self-respect and self-righteousness, it hints towards motivational and self-improvement literature.
Psychology — The theme of the book represents an exploration of psychological concepts of self-perception and ego, thus falls under the genre of psychology.
Philosophy — The book explores philosophical concepts of self-esteem and morality which places it under the philosophy category.