Admitting You Are Wrong

But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6) 
 
When they are confronted, why do people have a difficult time admitting they are wrong? They did something wrong, but they refuse to take any responsibility for their actions. They don’t even want to talk about it. They invariably try to justify why they did it. At the core, the human spirit is rebelling against God. This is a very dangerous heart attitude to possess.  
 
Researchers who have studied human behavior for years have suggested several explanations for people not admitting when they are wrong:  
 
1. They have a fragile ego.  
They won’t acknowledge the sin, possibly because they have a fragile ego. It wounds them to say, “I am wrong.”  They just can’t admit they are wrong. If they admitted they were wrong, their ego gets knocked down a couple of pegs, and they can’t afford to take that risk. 
 
2. They have to admit they are unworthy. 
Some have suggested that if people admit they are wrong, there is a sense of being unworthy. Their sense of self-worth is under attack.  
 
3. They want to appear strong and confident. 
They want to be in control. They put on a strong front; they might raise their voice and become even more stiff-necked when someone challenges their thoughts or opinions. 
 
4. They assume they can’t handle the truth. 
Furthermore, they don't really value the truth, especially if it attacks them. They would rather have people agree with them than line up with what is true.  
 
5. They are self-absorbed. 
Because they are so self-absorbed, their world is all about them. How do they feel about themselves? What do others think about them? If they are wrong, the answer to those questions might not be favorable. Everything is about them.  
 
6. They are stubborn. 
Some have suggested that they are just plain stubborn and refuse to admit they are wrong.  
Regardless of the reason, you find an entire world that lifts their fists toward heaven and says, “Not your will God, but mine be done.” Scripture is very clear that God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble. If you humble yourself before the Lord and admit when you are wrong, He will show you grace and mercy. Choose to humble yourself today and ask the Lord to give you grace, wisdom, and humility as you seek to follow Him.  

5 Comments


Alixon Novas - March 1st, 2024 at 7:13am

Thank you very much for your devotionals.

Shirley Burton - March 1st, 2024 at 7:20am

Thank you! So much to offer your care and concerns each day.

Kyle Dement - March 1st, 2024 at 9:46am

Dr. Dodd, you are such a blessing to me. I feel like every time I read your devotional it is just what I need. This one for today... Admitting You Were Wrong was no different. I get so much out of it and encourages me to read them. I appreciate you in more ways than you will ever know!

Robin Campbell - March 1st, 2024 at 3:04pm

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your mercy and grace each day . Thank You for Pastor Dobbs and his faithfulness to teach Your Word and Truth unashamed and forthright so that we might stay accountable to one another and glorify You as we work out our own salvation in Jesus Christ with fear and trembling for Your glory and namesake. Amen. 🙏

Betty Jane Laughlin - March 4th, 2024 at 6:25am

I try to admit it when I am wrong. I need to take a better check on myself to admit it when I am wrong.

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