The Drug of Self-Pity

The View From Above: Thoughts to Help With Everyday Life

June 9, 2026

Pastor Paul Stephens

The Drug of Self-Pity

You are never closer to sin than when you are feeling sorry for yourself.

The dictionary definition of self-pity is:

“Excessive, self-absorbed unhappiness over one’s own troubles.”

We see a lot of that around us, and sometimes in us.

Be careful, because even though you may not view yourself in that light, it can be very subtle.

There is no reason to feel sorry for yourself.

Perhaps the best antidote for it is found in Scripture:

Scripture Focus

1 Peter 5:6-7

“Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.”

There is our confidence. Therefore, there is no need to be feeling sorry for yourself unless you want to. And if you do, there is deliverance available.

We have a loving Savior who cares about what you are going through.

Self-pity is precisely the wrong way to go about dealing with our problems, pressures, and trials.

Instead of turning inward and focusing on ourselves, we are called to turn our burdens over to the Lord, trusting that He cares for us and is working on our behalf.

Today’s Challenge

Take time today to get the victory in prayer.

Stop indulging in the drug of self-pity and start casting your cares on Jesus.

Trust Him with every burden, every pressure, and every trial, knowing that He cares for you.