Why is humility important in looking to Christ?

In Luke 18, the parable of the Pharisee and the publican illustrates the importance of humility when approaching God. The publican, who would not even lift his eyes to heaven, cried out, 'God be merciful to me, a sinner.' This posture of humility is crucial because it acknowledges our complete dependence on God's mercy rather than our own righteousness. The preacher points out that if we ever cease to see ourselves as wretched sinners in need of grace, we will no longer be truly looking to Christ. Therefore, humility keeps our focus on Christ as the source of our salvation and prevents us from relying on our own works or self-righteousness. This understanding aligns with James 4:6, which says that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.