If you’re a Christian, let me ask you a question: Why are you going to Heaven? Wrong answers include, but are not limited to:
3. Because I haven’t done (insert specific, likely very deplorable sin here).
Many people believe that they’re good enough for Heaven. That because they’re either “good”, or at east “not so bad”, they’ve earned it. But here’s the humble truth: No sin is trivial. If you’ve so much as said a naughty word after stubbing your toe, you’ve fallen short of the glory of God. The wages for this? Death.
I personally believe that the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector should be prominently displayed in every church the world over. It should feature in many sermons, and its key points should be memorised by every Christian, because the importance of humility is summed up in these 4 little verses. It is not the "righteous" man, with all his great works and all his dedications, who was justified that day. Rather, it was the man he compared himself to, the same man he considered himself to be above, who left that temple right with God. The man who wore his sins on his sleeves, knowing and admitting that he was not worthy of God. The man who lamented the fact that he had violated God’s holy laws. The man who didn’t even say “forgive me because...”.
Because what? What could you possibly say to God to make Him think you're actually worthy of salvation? Can you say "Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?" According to Jesus in Matthew 7:21-23, no, that's not how it's done.
So how is it done? Rather than boast of your good works, or pointing to the evil of others, simply ask. Scripture tells us "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9). Therefore, to receive salvation, appeal for it to God. "Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner" will result in the Lord having mercy on you, the sinner.