Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?
Most men proclaim every one his own goodness, readily speaking, praising and boasting of their own kindness. By contrast a truly faithful man is rare, so self-proclaimed goodness is set against genuine faithfulness. The verse belongs with counsel about what is needful for those rescued from the evils of intemperance. Claims of goodness are not proof of genuine character.
Even sanctified people may proclaim their own goodness, and those who make the highest professions can be slow to confess their faults. Applied to humility, the verse distinguishes genuine humility, which does not advertise itself to others or seek people's attention, approval, and human notice, from false, apparent humility. False humility advertises itself in words and actions, draws attention to its own piety, and is pride disguised as piety.
Most men proclaim every one his own goodness, readily speaking, praising and boasting of their own kindness. By contrast a truly faithful man is rare, so self-proclaimed goodness is set against genuine faithfulness. The verse belongs with counsel about what is needful for those rescued from the evils of intemperance. Claims of goodness are not proof of genuine character.
Even sanctified people may proclaim their own goodness, and those who make the highest professions can be slow to confess their faults. Applied to humility, the verse distinguishes genuine humility, which does not advertise itself to others or seek people's attention, approval, and human notice, from false, apparent humility. False humility advertises itself in words and actions, draws attention to its own piety, and is pride disguised as piety.