How can Christians guard against self-righteousness?

Self-righteousness emerges when individuals believe they can achieve or contribute to their salvation through their works or moral standing. The message from Matthew 12 highlights the danger of relying on personal efforts, which can lead to deeper spiritual deception. To combat self-righteousness, Christians must continually remind themselves that their acceptance before God comes solely through faith in Christ's righteousness and His sacrifice. Regular reflection on Scripture, prayer for humility, and fellowship with believers can aid in maintaining a heart that recognizes the necessity of grace rather than personal achievement.